Terrorists threaten to kill 32 abducted Kaduna villagers over N30m ransom

 

Residents of Kutaho and Kugir communities in Aribi Ward of Kagarko Local Government Area are living in fear as suspected bandits holding 32 of their villagers have threatened to kill the hostages if a ₦30 million ransom and four motorcycles are not paid.

The victims, including women and at least one pregnant woman, were abducted more than a month ago during a night raid on the two communities. Community leaders and relatives say the kidnappers have maintained contact, issuing repeated threats to execute the captives if their demands are not met promptly.b22ce8

According to residents who spoke on condition of anonymity for safety reasons, the abduction occurred in February 2026. The bandits initially struck the villages, whisking away dozens of people before some were reportedly released or separated. The remaining 32 have been held in the bush since then, with the abductors demanding ₦30 million in cash plus four motorcycles for their safe return.

One community source told reporters: “It has been over a month now. These people are suffering in the forest. The bandits called again recently and said if we don’t pay the ₦30 million and provide the motorcycles, they will start killing them one by one.”

The development has heightened tension in the area, with many families struggling to raise the huge sum amid widespread poverty. Relatives have appealed to the Kaduna State Government, security agencies, and well-meaning Nigerians for urgent intervention to secure the release of the hostages without further loss of lives.

As of Tuesday, March 17, 2026, the Kaduna State Police Command had not issued an official statement on the latest threat, though similar incidents in the state have seen security forces launch rescue operations or facilitate negotiations in the past.

Kaduna State has witnessed a surge in banditry and mass kidnappings in recent years, with criminals targeting remote villages, churches, and travellers for ransom. Several high-profile abductions, including those involving worshippers in Kajuru and other LGAs, have been recorded in 2026, underscoring the persistent security challenges in parts of the North-West and North-Central regions.

Authorities have repeatedly vowed to crush the criminal elements, but residents continue to bear the brunt of the violence, often forced to pay ransoms as the only means of freeing loved ones.

This incident comes amid broader concerns over the safety of rural communities in Kaduna, where bandits operate with relative impunity in forested areas.

The families are pleading for swift action to prevent a tragic outcome. Further updates will be provided as the situation develops.