Abductors of Niger worshippers demand N60 million ransom

Abductors of worshippers in Maza-Kuka Community, Mashegu Local Government Area of Niger State, have demanded N60 million ransom from families of the victims.

Gunmen had invaded the community in the early hours of Monday when villagers were observing early morning prayers and killed no fewer than 18 people while several others were kidnapped.

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A source from the community, who spoke in confidence, told our correspondent that 11 people were kidnapped including the Chief Imam.

“They called yesterday, demanding N60 million ransom.

“We don’t know what to do for now. Though it is a Friday mosque, the Chief Imam who leads five daily prayers was kidnapped alongside 10 others,” he said.

Daily Trust gathered that a woman was among those killed during the attack.

A reliable source, who said the woman was a wife to his close friend, said; “when they were attacking, she shouted and attempted to run.

“That was when they shot her and she died instantly.

“If not, they didn’t touch women and all the abductees were men.”