More than 30 individuals who had been kidnapped in Gujin Duguri village in Alkaleri Local Government of Bauchi State have been rescued by security agents and local vigilantes. According to Adamu Duguri, a community leader, the victims were unharmed and safe. The abductees were being held captive in the vast Yankari, which lies along Bauchi’s borders with Plateau, Gombe, and Taraba states. The kidnappers initially engaged in a shootout with security agents but fled when the agents attacked their hideout. Photos of the rescued individuals are available.

A resident of Duguri named Dawa Sani has revealed that his family has paid around N30 million in ransom to kidnappers for the release of his relatives since December 2022. According to him, one of his female family members was kidnapped in December 2022 and they had to pay N15 million for her release. Similarly, in August, one of his sons was also kidnapped and another N15 million was paid to secure his release.

The situation of insecurity has been increasing continuously in rural areas, particularly in the four local government areas of Alkaleri, Toro, Ningi, and Tafawa Balewa.

“The problem of banditry in this part of the state has continued unabated for some time now, despite the authorities concerned saying that they are aware of the situation at all times,” he said.

The level of insecurity in Bauchi State has been increasing recently. However, the state governor, Bala Mohammed, has assured that his administration is taking measures to address the threat once and for all. Unfortunately, the spokesperson of the Bauchi State Police Command, Ahmed Wakili, could not be reached for comment as calls to his mobile phone were unsuccessful. Additionally, photos of the rescued hostages have been released.