Convoy comes under heavy gunfire near Kucheri village as driver narrowly averts tragedy; no casualties recorded

Gunmen suspected to be bandits launched a brazen attack on the convoy of Zamfara State Governor’s Chief of Staff, Alhaji Mouktar Lugga, along the Funtua–Gusau highway on Thursday evening.

The ambush occurred at about 6:16 p.m. near Kucheri village as Lugga was returning from an official engagement, according to sources familiar with the incident.

Eyewitness accounts said the attackers emerged from both sides of the road and opened fire on the convoy, specifically targeting the vehicle conveying the Chief of Staff and his aides.

In the course of the attack, a bullet pierced the vehicle’s windshield, narrowly missing the driver. Another gunman reportedly attempted to fire at close range, but his weapon malfunctioned.

Amid the chaos, the driver managed to skillfully navigate the vehicle out of the ambush zone, ensuring the safe escape of all occupants without injuries.

The incident underscores the persistent insecurity in Zamfara State, where bandit groups continue to stage attacks on highways, communities, and high-profile targets despite ongoing security efforts.