Some bandits who kidnapped no fewer than 56 residents of Banga village in Kaura Namoda Local government area of Zamfara State,have reportedly killed 38 of the victims, despite a ransom payment of over N50 million.
A resident of the village, Aminu Musa Banga, who confirmed the incident, said the victims were kidnapped over the past few months, with the abductors initially demanding N1 million for each person’s release.
“These bandits killed 38 of our men and one woman while they were in their custody. We received this report from 16 of our people who were released by these bandits,” LEADERSHIP quoted Banga as saying.
Banga also said that the bandits killed the victims after ransom payments were made.
“The bandits slaughtered them one by one after we paid a ransom of over N50 million,” he said.
Banga also revealed that the bandits had effectively taken control of Banga Village, forcing residents of nearby communities to flee for safety.
He appealed to both the Federal and Zamfara state governments to intervene by deploying military personnel to restore peace and push back the violent groups terrorising the area.
Also confirming the tragic development, the Chairman of Kaura Namoda Local Government, Hon. Mannir Mu’azu Haidara, said the remaining victims released by the bandits were in critical condition and were being treated at a hospital in Kaura Namoda.
“The remaining victims were released with serious injuries caused by beatings while in captivity,” Haidara said.
He assured residents that efforts were ongoing to address the security crisis, pledging continued collaboration with security agencies and the state government.
“God willing, we will not be tired of continuing to take appropriate measures and working hand -in -hand with security agencies and the State Government under the leadership of Dr. Dauda Lawal, which is firmly committed to overcoming this problem of insecurity that plagues us day and night,” he added.
The Public Relations Officer of Zamfara State Police Command, Yazid Abubakar, did not answer calls made to him.
Meanwhile, the House of Representatives member representing Kaura Namoda/Birnin Magaji Federal Constituency, who is also the Chairman House Committee on Ecological Fund, Aminu Sani Jaji, confirmed the incident.
Confirming the incident in a post on his verified X (formerly Twitter) handle on Sunday, Jaji said, “I’m deeply saddened by the recent attack on the people of Banga by bandits last night.
“I offer my heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and pray for the speedy recovery of those injured.
“My heart goes out to those affected, and I stand in solidarity with you during this difficult time.”
The lawmaker further stated, “As your representative, I apologize for any perceived shortcomings in ensuring the safety and security of our community.
“I’m committed to working tirelessly with relevant authorities to address this issue, enhance security measures, and prevent future occurrences.
“I’ll also advocate for support and resources from both state and Federal Governments to help our community recover and rebuild.”
Zamfara State has continued to battle deadly attacks by armed groups who frequently raid villages, abduct residents for ransom, and impose levies on communities.
