Bandits have released 40 out of the 150 residents they abducted from the Kuchi community in Munya Local Government Area of Niger State.
Three weeks ago, a large group of bandits invaded the community, killing seven people, including four security agents and a veterinary doctor, while looting shops, houses, and barns before abducting 150 residents. According to reports, the victims, mainly women and children, were freed on Tuesday, June 11, 2024, after the community paid a ransom of N2 million.
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In addition to the N2 million ransom, the community pooled funds to purchase 12 Honda motorcycles, each valued at N1.2 million, which were handed over to the bandits. A source told Premium Times that the bandits are still holding 110 villagers, with ongoing negotiations for their release.
The source revealed that the bandits have offered to free another 40 hostages if the community pays an additional N2 million and provides six more motorcycles. Initially, the bandits demanded a ransom of N150 million for the captives, but the community negotiated to pay N100,000 per abducted resident, which the bandits rejected. “We have been negotiating with the bandits but finally they agreed to collect six Honda motorcycles and N2 million for the release of two groups totaling 40 in number,” the source stated.
“The 150 people they abducted were divided into six groups, and they said we should bring six Honda motorcycles and N2 million cash for each of the groups. This is after they rejected our initial offer of N100,000 for each person. They have released two groups, remaining four groups.
“Since the incident, no single government official or security agent has visited the community for an on-the-spot assessment of what happened. The community is left without security at the moment and it has remained deserted,” the source added.
