New video published by bandits features captives pleading for help

Bandits have released a video that showcased the plight of the individuals who were abducted from Maidabino town, which is located in Danmusa local government area of Katsina state.

Captives, including numerous women and children, are seen begging for help.

On June 22, Maidabino, the third largest town in Danmusa, was attacked by a large group of bandits.

The assault resulted in the death of nine residents and the abduction of fifty others.

The bandits reportedly carried out the attack for several hours without facing any resistance due to their overwhelming numbers. It is believed they were on a reprisal mission.

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During the raid, the attackers destroyed over ten houses, fifteen shops, and at least nine vehicles. The assault lasted from 10 PM on Saturday until approximately 2:30 AM on Sunday.

Days after the attack, a video lasting 5 minutes and 41 seconds surfaced, showing the kidnapped individuals. In the footage, the bandits demand that the government intervene and secure their release.

The bandits accuse the Community Watch Corps, a state security outfit, of killing their family members, which they claim prompted the retaliatory attack on Maidabino. They also issued a stark warning that Danmusa town would be their next target within a week.

In the video, the bandits dressed in army uniform and carrying a machine gun, declared that not even the state governor could secure the captives’ release without negotiating with the bandits.

“You see what your vigilante (Community Watch Corps) have caused you, and they cannot come and rescue you, not even Governor Radda could rescue you here, unless through reconciliation,” the militant said. “And if nothing is done towards reconciliation, this is just the beginning. I can open fire and kill all of you, and nothing will happen. We are going to attack Danmusa this week and we are going to bring their people here, you will see them. We will also bring your Community Watch Corps members here before you leave this place.”

Local residents are deeply concerned about the impending attack. One resident mentioned that the bandits are reportedly mobilizing from Zamfara state and have already held several meetings to plan their next assault.

“We are appealing to the government to deploy more security personnel to this area to protect people from this impending attack and also from the daily occurrence of kidnapping along the Yantumaki road,” said another resident. He added that while the security forces and the Community Watch Corps are doing their best, they appear to be overwhelmed.

The community continues to live in fear as they await government action to address the ongoing threat and secure the release of the kidnapped individuals.

(Daily Trust)