Niger: Bandits on rampage again, kidnap 50 passengers

At least, 50 passengers were kidnapped by bandits along the Tegina-Minna road in Rafi Local government Area of Niger State, on Tuesday.

According to a source in the area, the bandits blocked the road at Kundu town, a few kilometres from Zungeru town, when the three commercial vehicles loaded with passengers, ran into them.

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The passengers were reportedly abducted while the vehicles were left by the roadside.

In another development, armed bandits abducted unknown numbers of villagers at Gidigori town still in Rafi Local Government Area, burning five cars and carting away valuables.

While confirming this incident, a senior government official, who craved anonymity, said nothing has been heard from the bandits to enable the authorities to know the identities of those kidnapped.

Again, one person was killed while several others were kidnapped when bandits raided Manta town in Shiroro Local Government Area on Monday evening.

The bandits also ransacked the houses of the villagers, stealing foodstuff and other valuables items.

Efforts to reach the state Police Public Relations Officer, Wasiu Abiodun, was unsuccessful as he did not pick his calls.