Armed bandits in Zamfara State have reportedly killed 38 out of at least 56 people abducted from Banga Village in Kaura Namoda Local Government Area, despite receiving more than ₦50 million in ransom payments.
A resident, Aminu Musa Banga, confirmed the incident, saying the kidnappings occurred over the past few months. He explained that the attackers initially demanded ₦1 million for each captive’s release.
“These bandits executed 38 of our men and one woman while they were still being held. We learned this from 16 people who were eventually freed,” LEADERSHIP quoted him as saying.
According to Banga, the killings happened after the ransom was paid. “They slaughtered them one after another even though we had already delivered over ₦50 million,” he said.
He added that the armed groups have now taken control of Banga Village, forcing many neighboring communities to abandon their homes. He appealed to both the federal and Zamfara State governments to deploy more security forces to restore order.
The Chairman of Kaura Namoda LGA, Hon. Mannir Mu’azu Haidara, also confirmed the attack, noting that those recently released are severely injured from torture while in captivity and are receiving treatment in a local hospital.
“The victims sustained serious wounds from beatings before their release,” Haidara said. He assured residents that the local authorities are working with security agencies and the state government to tackle the crisis, stating:
“We will not relent. Together with the security forces and the administration of Governor Dauda Lawal, we are determined to confront this persistent insecurity that threatens us daily.”
When contacted, Zamfara State Police Command spokesperson Yazid Abubakar reportedly declined to answer calls from SaharaReporters. However, LEADERSHIP quoted him as saying that no such case had been formally reported. He urged residents to promptly notify security agencies of any kidnapping or attack to enable quick intervention.
Meanwhile, Aminu Sani Jaji, the member representing Kaura Namoda/Birnin Magaji Federal Constituency and Chairman of the House Committee on Ecological Fund, confirmed the killings in a statement on his verified X (formerly Twitter) account.
“I am deeply saddened by the recent attack on Banga residents. I extend my condolences to the bereaved families and pray for the quick recovery of those injured. I stand with you in this difficult time,” he wrote.
“As your representative, I regret any perceived shortcomings in protecting our community. I will continue to engage the necessary authorities to strengthen security and prevent future attacks. I will also push for assistance from both the state and federal governments to help our people recover.”
Zamfara has faced relentless violence from armed groups who raid villages, kidnap residents for ransom, and impose levies on entire communities.
