A harrowing tragedy has unfolded in Banga village, Kaura Namoda Local Government Area of Zamfara State, where armed bandits killed 38 residents who were abducted weeks ago, despite receiving a ransom payment of ₦50 million.
According to Chairman of Kaura Namoda LGA, Mannir Haidara Kaura, a total of 56 people were initially kidnapped by the bandits. After the community raised and paid the ransom, only 18 hostages were released alive, while the remaining 38 were brutally slaughtered one by one during their captivity. The released victims, many severely injured, have since been admitted to hospitals for medical treatment.
A resident, Ibrahim Banga, shared that the victims were predominantly women and children and called urgently for federal and state government intervention. He urged the deployment of military forces to secure the area, restore peace, facilitate the return of displaced persons, and rescue any remaining captives.
This incident marks one of the gravest security crises in the region, symbolizing the escalating threat and cruelty posed by banditry in Zamfara State. It highlights the severe challenges facing communities under siege from armed groups amid ongoing insecurity.
Local authorities and security agencies are under pressure to increase efforts to combat banditry, protect vulnerable populations, and prevent further tragic losses.
READ ALSO: Popular Lagos Socialite Abu Abel Arrested Over Alleged ₦447 Million Land Fraud