One week after 28 travellers were abducted in Plateau State, their captors have insisted on a ransom of N1.5 million for each adult victim. The victims, including men, women and children, were kidnapped last Sunday at Zak community in the Bashar district of Wase Local Government Area while travelling to Sabon Layi for a Maulud Nabbiy event.
Relatives said the kidnappers first contacted them on Tuesday with the ransom demand, but families explained they could not raise the amount. On the same day, Wase Local Government Chairman, Muhammed Hamisu, said security agencies had deployed soldiers and helicopters to search for the victims. The Plateau State Police Command later confirmed ongoing rescue efforts.
However, a relative, Ibrahim Musa, said the abductors called again on Sunday, insisting payment must be made. He said, “They called again and said they have seen helicopters flying in the bush and searching for the victims. They told us, ‘We will not release them until the ransom is paid. That is all we need from you.’” Families continue to appeal for their release.