Ransom Demand Skyrockets: Bandits Seek N40 Trillion for Kaduna Captives
In a shocking turn of events, bandits who recently abducted 16 residents from the Gonin Gora area of Kaduna metropolis have issued an astronomical ransom demand. Community leader John Yusuf revealed in a distressing telephone interview that the captors are demanding a staggering N40 trillion, along with 11 Hilux vans and 150 brand new motorcycles, for the safe return of the hostages.
The community, reeling from the audacious demand, finds itself in a state of disbelief and despair. “Where are we going to get this kind of money! Even if we sell the entire community, we cannot raise N40 trillion. Even Nigeria as a country has never made a budget of N40 trillion,” exclaimed Yusuf.
The bandits have struck the community twice within a week, with a four-day interval between the abductions. The first assault resulted in three kidnappings, while the second saw 13 more individuals taken, totaling 16 victims.
Yusuf lamented the vast stretches of bush bordering the community and Birnin Gwari Local Government Area, which provide a haven for the bandits’ operations. He urgently called for the establishment of a military base to stem the tide of criminal invasions.
Despite the dire situation, Yusuf commended the Nigerian Army for their valiant efforts in containing the bandits, though he noted their response is hampered by the vast terrain and the bandits’ swift incursions.
The community’s plea to the government is clear: establish a military presence to safeguard the area and take proactive measures to eradicate the threat. “If not, it is going to consume all of us,” warned the community leaders.
The recent spate of violence began on Wednesday, February 28, when bandits stormed Anguwan Auta, killing two and abducting three. Merely days later, they returned to claim 13 more victims. In response, hundreds of youths protested the attacks, blocking the vital Kaduna – Abuja highway in a desperate cry for action and assistance.
