One Dead, 38 Still Held as Bandits Demand N125 Million Ransom for Zamfara 39 Kidnap Victims

One of the 39 persons abducted in Magami Diddi, Faru/Magami Ward of Maradun Local Government Area in Zamfara State has died in captivity, while 38 others remain in the hands of armed abductors.

The victim, identified as Baba Bako, was said to be an elderly man who died while still in captivity. Local authorities say his death was not caused by violence but attributed to old age and frailty.

The mass abduction has deepened fears in the community, already grappling with persistent insecurity in parts of Zamfara State.

According to the councillor representing Faru/Magami Ward, the abductors contacted families via telephone and demanded a ransom of ₦125 million for the release of the remaining victims.

The attackers reportedly issued a deadline, warning that the ransom must be paid by Tuesday or the captives would face torture, with threats of increased ransom demands if delayed.

The councillor confirmed the development in a telephone interview with Arise News, noting that the death of the elderly victim has heightened panic and distress among residents.

He said the situation has left families in desperation, as efforts intensify to raise the demanded ransom for the release of their relatives.

Community members say the incident has further worsened fear in the area, calling for urgent security intervention to prevent further loss of life and secure the release of the remaining hostages.

Local leaders have also appealed to security agencies to intensify rescue operations and restore calm to the troubled community.