Forty out of the 150 residents abducted from Kuchi community in Munya Local Government Area of Niger State, have been freed by their captors.
The released hostages, predominantly women and children, were set free after the community provided N2 million and 12 Honda motorcycles to the bandits.
The release took place on Tuesday morning following the community’s efforts to meet the bandits’ demands. Each motorcycle reportedly cost N1.2 million. However, 110 hostages remain in captivity.
Reliable sources indicated that the bandits have proposed to release another 40 hostages if the community can provide an additional N2 million and six more motorcycles. Negotiations are ongoing between the bandits and community representatives.
This ordeal began three weeks ago when a large group of bandits invaded Kuchi community.
The attack resulted in the deaths of seven individuals, including four security personnel. The bandits looted homes, shops, and barns, taking over 150 residents hostage in an assault that lasted more than three hours without any resistance from security forces.
Initially, the bandits demanded N150 million for the release of all captives, but the community attempted to negotiate a payment of N100,000 per person, which the bandits refused.
The bandits later settled for the motorcycles and cash deal for the release of smaller groups of hostages.
Local government chairman Aminu Najume confirmed the attack and abduction but could not verify the release of the 40 hostages.
He clarified that the council was not involved in the negotiations. Najume promised to gather information and update accordingly.
Similarly, Wasiu Abiodun, the spokesperson for the Niger State Police Command, said he would verify the information and provide details.
