However, the kidnappers refused to release the other son of the chief and two other victims, demanding another N3m before they would be freed. The Village Head of Bukpe, His Royal Highness Alhaji Hassan Shandozhi confirmed the release of his wife and one of his sons but stated that the other victims are still in captivity.
The FCT Police Command has not yet commented on the matter. City & Crime had previously reported that bandits abducted one of the chief’s wives, two sons and three other residents of the area from their residences on February 4, 2023. The abductions have been an ongoing issue in the area, with many residents living in fear of being kidnapped.
In response to the incident, the FCT Commissioner of Police, Sadiq Abubakar, deployed a team of operatives to rescue the victims and apprehend the suspects. However, the situation remains unresolved as the kidnappers continue to demand ransom for the remaining hostages. The abduction of the chief’s wife and son highlights the pervasive insecurity in Nigeria, particularly in the North where banditry and kidnapping have become rampant.
The government has been criticized for its lack of effective response to the situation, with many calling for more robust security measures and the prosecution of the perpetrators. The abduction also underscores the need for improved community policing and cooperation between security agencies and local communities.
The victims of these crimes often suffer significant trauma and may require psychological support to recover from their ordeal. It is therefore important that the government takes urgent steps to address the insecurity in the country and prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.