crime

Kaduna Bandits Threaten 32 Abducted Villagers

Published

8 months ago

March 17, 2026

Bandits in Kaduna abduct 32 villagers from Kutaho and Kugir, demanding ₦30M and motorcycles, threatening to kill hostages if ransom is unmet

Residents of Kutaho and Kugir communities in Kagarko LGA have raised alarm over the captivity of 32 villagers by armed bandits for over a month.

The kidnappers reportedly invaded the communities on February 9, 2026, abducting women, children, and even a heavily pregnant woman, before demanding a ransom of ₦30 million and four motorcycles for their release.

Also read: Bandits Kill One, Abduct Seven in Kaduna Attack

Community members described the terrifying raid, saying gunshots erupted during the night as bandits forced residents from their homes.

Efforts to raise the ransom have been challenging due to widespread poverty and a lack of telecommunications infrastructure, making communication with security agencies difficult.

The attack has forced many residents to flee, while farming activities—once the lifeblood of the communities—have been severely disrupted.

Rev. John Maiaper, chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the area, noted that traditional crops like ginger are no longer widely cultivated, with locals focusing on maize, groundnut, and millet instead.

Also read: Bandits Kill Two Vigilantes in Sokoto Attack

Pastor Bello Danasabe of the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) added that insecurity has worsened the economic situation for residents.

As of the report, the Kaduna State Police Command and state government have not yet commented on the incident.

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crime

Police Arrest 41-Year-Old Over Murder of Bayelsa Sand Dealer

Published

14 hours ago

November 10, 2026

Mariam Balogun

The Nigeria Police Force has arrested a 41-year-old man, Somkiemi Tommy, over the alleged murder of a sand business operator, Thankgod Kalaba, in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.

The Force Public Relations Officer, Chief Superintendent of Police Ani Iniedu, disclosed the arrest in a statement on Monday.

According to the police, Kalaba was allegedly murdered after visiting a river on October 29, 2026. His body was reportedly tied to a boat and submerged in the water.

Iniedu said the police began investigating the incident after receiving a report about the victim’s disappearance and suspected murder.

Preliminary findings reportedly indicated that the victim had been trailed and killed by Tommy.

The police spokesperson added that the suspect allegedly tied Kalaba’s body to a boat before submerging it in the river in an attempt to conceal the crime.

He said the suspect was arrested by police operatives working in collaboration with youths in Yenaka.

“Acting on the report, police operatives, in collaboration with Yenaka youths, successfully arrested the suspect,” Iniedu stated.

Tommy is currently in police custody, while the Criminal Investigation Department has commenced further investigations into the circumstances surrounding the killing.

The police said the investigation would establish the events leading to Kalaba’s death and determine whether other individuals were involved.

The suspect is expected to face prosecution if the allegations are established by investigators.

The police have yet to disclose the motive behind the alleged murder.