Bandits release 74 abductees in Zamfara

After being held captive for weeks, 74 abducted persons have regained their freedom from the hands of bandits in Wanzamai village of Tsafe local government area of Zamfara State. The release came at a cost of six million naira ransom. However, the release wasn't without casualties as two individuals, Saifullah Yahaya and Sanusi Mati, were shot dead while trying to escape, and nine still remain in captivity.

Parents of the released children expressed their gratitude towards the community members who contributed to the ransom. Two boys and a girl were reunited with their parents and taken to a nearby hospital for medical attention. While the families celebrate their reunion, the two deceased individuals' families are left in mourning.

Police spokesman man DSP Shehu Muhammad refrained from commenting on the issue, stating that he was not in Zamfara, while the Information Commissioner Ibrahim Dosara didn't respond to phone calls.

It is pertinent to note that this is not the first incident of abduction in Wanzamai village. On April 7, bandits abducted 85 individuals, including those who went to fetch firewood. The recurrence of such incidents in the same area raises concerns about the state of security in the region, with residents left to live in constant fear.