In a brazen act of terror, a notorious group of bandits has struck fear into communities within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), demanding a staggering N300 million ransom for the release of 13 individuals recently kidnapped.
The victims, including four children, were abducted from Kurudu Extension in the Bwari Area Council of the FCT last week, with the assailants extending their reach to the nearby Azu village in Niger State.
The Madaki of Kuduru, Kure Zaphaniya, confirmed the ransom demand and shared details of the horrifying incident, revealing that the abductions occurred amidst sporadic shooting in the area. The bandit leader reportedly contacted the community through a victim’s phone, setting the exorbitant ransom as a condition for the release of the hostages.
While acknowledging the prompt response of certain army personnel during the initial assault, Zaphaniya disclosed that negotiations for the victims’ release were still underway. As of now, the FCT Police Command has not issued a response to the recent claims.
Chairman of Akwanga Local Government Regains Freedom After Ransom Payment
In a separate incident, the chairman of the Akwanga local government area in Nasarawa state, Hon Safiyanu Isa Andaha, and his political godfather, Adamu Umar Custom, have been freed from their captors. The duo was abducted on New Year’s Day by suspected bandits.
Negotiations led by a member of the state working committee of the APC resulted in the payment of N10 million to the kidnappers, who initially demanded N50 million. The victims were released following the successful negotiation, and they have been joyously reunited with their families.
The Nasarawa State Police Command assured the public that active investigations are ongoing. The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ramhan Nansel, stated that Commissioner of Police, Umar Nadada, has deployed personnel to track down the kidnappers and ensure the safe release of the council chairman and the other victim.
These incidents highlight the increasing challenges faced by communities in the FCT and Nasarawa state, as they grapple with the menace of banditry and the audacious demands of criminal elements. Authorities continue to work diligently to address the security concerns and bring the perpetrators to justice.
