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Nigeria: 80+ Missing After Gang Abductions
29 Sep
Summary
- Over 80 individuals reported missing following separate weekend gang abductions.
- Police discovered human remains suspected to be from kidnapping victims in Abia.
- Mass ransom kidnappings are a growing concern in Nigeria's northwest and north-central regions.
Over 80 individuals have been reported missing in Nigeria due to separate weekend abductions by armed gangs. In Niger State, at least 47 farmers were abducted on Saturday while harvesting peanuts. The following day, approximately 40 women were kidnapped in Zamfara State. These incidents are attributed to criminal gangs known locally as 'bandits,' who frequently engage in ransom kidnappings and cattle rustling.
Separately, police in Abia State announced the discovery of 28 human skulls and bones believed to belong to kidnapping victims. The remains were found after authorities raided forest camps associated with criminal groups. Suspects reportedly fled the scene, and efforts to apprehend them are underway.
Mass abductions for ransom have become a prevalent issue in Nigeria's northwestern and north-central areas. These gangs often hold captives until substantial ransom payments are made. The escalating security concerns come ahead of the January presidential elections, where security is expected to be a major campaign issue.
