Nigerian states impose curbs in bid to stop kidnappings, violence

Governments in Niger, Katsina, Kaduna and Zamfara states announce restrictions on residents amid worsening violence.

Four state governments in northern and central Nigeria have imposed a series of restrictions on residents in an attempt to stop mass kidnappings and other violent crimes. Gangs of criminals known locally as bandits have spread fear among local communities for years, but security forces have recently struggled to contain worsening violence. From Wednesday, weekly cattle markets are suspended in Niger state, local government spokesman Ahmed Matane said in a statement.