Kidnappers in Nigeria's Zamfara state have brutally killed 35 hostages taken from Banga village, even after ransoms were reportedly paid for their release. The incident took place in March when 56 individuals were abducted. According to local official Manniru Haidara Kaura, although the bandits received ransom demands of one million naira ($655 or £485) per individual, they executed many captives in a shocking display of violence.
Haida Kaura described the victims, predominantly young individuals, as having been "slaughtered like rams." After negotiations, 18 hostages, including 17 women and one young boy, were released on Saturday, while the majority who were killed numbered 38. Kaura condemned the actions of the bandits, calling them "senseless and heartless," asserting that they forget they are harming their own people.
Despite a law enacted last year making ransom payments illegal and punishable by imprisonment, the reality remains grim, as families often feel compelled to pay to ensure the safety of their loved ones due to the government's failure to provide adequate security. Released hostages have been taken to hospitals for treatment, while the bodies of the deceased are usually not returned to families as a tragic result of such kidnappings.
As Nigeria grapples with an escalating kidnapping crisis, the cycle of violence continues, pushing families into desperate decisions amid government inaction.
Haida Kaura described the victims, predominantly young individuals, as having been "slaughtered like rams." After negotiations, 18 hostages, including 17 women and one young boy, were released on Saturday, while the majority who were killed numbered 38. Kaura condemned the actions of the bandits, calling them "senseless and heartless," asserting that they forget they are harming their own people.
Despite a law enacted last year making ransom payments illegal and punishable by imprisonment, the reality remains grim, as families often feel compelled to pay to ensure the safety of their loved ones due to the government's failure to provide adequate security. Released hostages have been taken to hospitals for treatment, while the bodies of the deceased are usually not returned to families as a tragic result of such kidnappings.
As Nigeria grapples with an escalating kidnapping crisis, the cycle of violence continues, pushing families into desperate decisions amid government inaction.
