Bandits have refused a N3 million ransom offered for the release of 26 villagers abducted from Kakidawa ward in the Gidan-Goga district of Maradun Local Government Area, Zamfara State. The abduction occurred in the early hours of Sunday, December 8, 2024, plunging the community into fear and uncertainty.
The hostages, comprising 19 females and six males, were taken during an attack that has become all too familiar to the residents of this beleaguered region. Abubakar Shehu, a local resident whose three daughters are among those kidnapped, recounted the harrowing ordeal. "We raised N3 million to offer to the bandits, but they rejected it," Shehu lamented.
"When we informed their leader about the amount, he dismissed us, saying we were not serious, and then switched off his phone."
Shehu further explained that the bandits, who operate from a camp near the village, have been a persistent threat to the community. Despite repeated reports to security agencies, no action has been taken to address the situation.
"We have informed the security personnel in the local government, but nothing has been done to address the situation. This is not the first time our village has been attacked," he said.
The ongoing crisis has forced many residents to flee Gidan-Goga, though some, like Shehu, remain due to a lack of alternatives.
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