Kaduna Bandits Claim Lives of Eight Abducted Residents

Eight residents abducted by suspected bandits in Awon community, Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State, died in captivity six months after their abduction on April 20, 2026. The victims included a mother named Joy Samuel, her three-year-old daughter Silvia, and a newborn baby.

Joy Samuel died on August 28 after giving birth while in captivity, and her newborn also died shortly after. Additionally, 34-year-old Yusuf Bawa and his five-year-old son succumbed to illnesses and severe hunger during their captivity.

The abductors had demanded a ransom of ₦300 million and 23 motorcycles, rejecting a lower offer from the community and threatening to starve the captives until their demands were met. One of the 11 abductees managed to escape, but the fate of the remaining victims has raised significant concerns.

Journalist Reuben Buhari reported these developments on his verified X account on October 22.