The Zamfara State Government has announced the ban on eleven operational cattle markets.
The government said closure followed the discovery that some persons were dealing on cattle without proper documentation as required by law.
This was contained in a statement issued by the state Commissioner for Information, Mumir Haidara Kaura.
He also noted that the closure of the markets was informed by security reports that bandits were using the markets to sell their rustled cows.
According to the statement, the affected markets include the Tsafe and Bilbis markets in Tsafe Local Government Area and the Wuya market in the Anka local government area.
“Others include Magamin Diddi market in Maradun Local government, Galadi market in Shinkafi local government, Mada market in Gusau local government and Sabon Birnin Danali in Birnin Magaji local government.
Other markets are; Kokiya, Chigama and Nasarawar Godel markets, all in Birnin Magaji local government Area.
The statement said, “The State government finds it absolutely necessary to close down these markets due to security reports that the bandits are conniving with some unscrupulous elements to sell off their rustled cows in those markets”.
”The State Government has directed the security agents to ensure compliance and arrest any person who violates the order.
“The security personnel have since been directed to arrest any person found in these affected markets.
Haidara called on the people of the state to abide by the order and cooperate with the state government in its efforts to rid the state of banditry activities.
Banditry: Zamfara govt shuts down 11 cattle markets over rustling