Tragedy in Zamfara: 38 Hostages Allegedly Slain by Kidnappers After Receiving ₦50m Ransom

By Our Correspondent

A horrifying tragedy has unfolded in Banga village, Kaura Namoda Local Government Area of Zamfara State, where suspected kidnappers reportedly killed 38 of their captives despite allegedly collecting over ₦50 million in ransom.

According to reports, the victims were among 56 residents abducted by armed men over the past few months.

Confirming the incident, a resident, Aminu Musa Banga, disclosed that only 16 of the abducted individuals were released, while the rest were allegedly executed by their captors.

“These bandits killed 38 of our men and one woman while they were in captivity. The survivors who returned home informed us of this heartbreaking development,” Banga told LEADERSHIP.

He added that the killings were carried out despite the ransom being paid in full. “The bandits slaughtered them one after another, even after we paid over ₦50 million,” he lamented.

Banga also revealed that the armed group has virtually taken over Banga village, forcing residents from nearby communities to flee in fear.

He urged both the Federal and Zamfara State governments to act urgently by deploying security forces to restore peace and repel the attackers.

Kaura Namoda Local Government Chairman, Hon. Mannir Mu’azu Haidara, also confirmed the killings, stating that the released captives were in critical condition due to severe beatings while in detention.

“The victims who returned are being treated at the hospital here in Kaura Namoda. They sustained serious injuries from the torture they endured,” Haidara said.

He assured the public that the local government, in coordination with security agencies and the administration of Governor Dauda Lawal, was working to find lasting solutions to the persistent insecurity.