Qatar has condemned a terrorist attack in Zamfara. Several people were killed, and others were kidnapped in the attack.

In a statement on Monday, Qatar denounced the attack.

“The State of Qatar voices its strong condemnation and denunciation of the attack that targeted a village in Zamfara State, northwest of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which led to dozens of deaths and the abduction of a number of women and children,” the statement said.

Restating its firm opposition to violence, terrorism and all forms of criminal acts, Qatar’s foreign ministry faulted the attack, as well as all the possible motives and reasons under which the incident was perpetrated.

Hoping for the safety of the hostages, the ministry expressed condolences to the affected families, victims, and the Nigerian government.

“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterates the State of Qatar’s stance rejecting violence, terrorism, and criminal acts, regardless of the motives and reasons,” the ministry stated. “The ministry expresses the State of Qatar’s condolences to the families of the victims, and to the government and people of Nigeria, wishing for the safety of the abductees.”

On Thursday, terrorists attacked Dutsin Dan Ajiya village, situated in Hanka LGA of Zamfara. Terrorists killed no fewer than 38 people and abducted an unspecified number of villagers, including children and women.

“About 38 people were killed at Duste Dan Ajiya under Hanka Local Government, Zamfara. We don’t have the number of people abducted for now,” Mr Yazid Abubakar, Zamfara police spokesperson, told The Gazette.

The police spokesman explained that its operatives had difficulty reaching the affected location, citing the need to cross two rivers, which delayed a prompt response to the distress call.

“What happened was that to get to the village, Dutse Dan Ajiya, you must cross two rivers. When we received the distress call, we mobilised to the village. But, unfortunately, our vehicles got stuck on the road because of the terrain, so by the time we navigated the terrain and got there, the havoc had already been done,” Mr Abubakar explained.