In July 2025, Zamfara bandits brutally killed 38 kidnapped villagers from Banga village, Kaura Namoda Local Government Area despite the community raising and paying over ₦50 million as ransom. A total of 56 persons were abducted, but only 18 were later released and received medical treatment. Survivors recounted that the bandits slaughtered the remaining captives one after another during their captivity, mocking the government’s inability to protect citizens or secure safe releases. The bandits had demanded ₦1 million per hostage, but even after receiving the ransom, they carried out the mass killings – a stark demonstration of disregard for negotiation processes and government authority.
The local government chairman condemned the attacks, describing the act as barbaric, and appealed for intensified military operations in the area to restore peace and facilitate the rescue of remaining captives. The Zamfara state government similarly condemned the killings and vowed to pursue justice for the victims.
This tragic event highlights the severe insecurity challenges in northwest Nigeria, where banditry, kidnappings for ransom, and armed violence continue to threaten lives and livelihoods, despite government efforts and community cooperation.
Unfortunately, no public images of the victims or the attackers are available through authorized news sources to share, respecting the dignity and privacy of those affected.
