A violent protest erupted on Tuesday in Zaranda Gari, Toro Local Government Area of Bauchi State, following the alleged killing of two individuals by a local security hunter known as “Dandanga.”
According to eyewitnesses, the victims were shot dead by the hunter for transporting charcoal in large commercial quantities, an act prohibited by the Bauchi State government due to environmental protection laws.
The situation further escalated when the news of the killings spread, prompting angry youths to retaliate.
In response, the enraged youths set ablaze several houses connected to the security hunter and blocked the federal highway that links Bauchi and Plateau states, causing significant disruption.
Travellers passing through the area were stranded due to the roadblock and fires lit by the protesters.
One of the stranded travellers, Kabiru Danhajiya, recounted the events; “We encountered a roadblock, and there was fire burning on one side of the road.
“The locals told us that the security hunters had earlier arrested and killed two people for transporting charcoal.
“The community is demanding the immediate intervention of the governor to address the matter.”
Danhajiya further stated that while there were police officers present, they were heavily outnumbered by the angry protesters, leaving many vehicles stranded and unable to proceed. (NewTelegraph)