Reps seek rescue of 28 abducted travellers; bandits demand N42m ransom

The House of Representatives has called on security agencies to urgently rescue 28 travellers, including 25 children, abducted by bandits in Wase LGA of Plateau State.

The resolution followed a motion by Ahmed Idris Wase during Tuesday’s plenary.

According to the motion, the victims – 25 children, a teacher and a tricycle rider – were abducted on the Zak–Sabon-Layin Gaji road in Bashar District.

Wase recalled that the incident occurred on Sunday, December 21, when the victims were travelling to attend a Maulud celebration in Sabon-Layin Gaji village and were reportedly ambushed by armed bandits who fled with them into the bush, leaving behind the tricycle and the children’s footwear.

The lawmaker expressed concern that the thick forest terrain in the area posed a serious challenge for conventional security patrols, hampering surveillance and rescue operations.

Consequently, the house urged security agencies to intensify efforts to ensure the immediate and safe rescue of the abducted victims.

Kidnappers demand N42m ransom

Meanwhile, the kidnappers of 28 travellers in Plateau State have reportedly contacted the victims’ families, demanding a N1.5 million ransom for each person, totalling N42 million.

A relative of one of the victims, Ibrahim Musa, told Daily Trust on Tuesday that the abductors had contacted the families, insisting on the payment of N1.5 million per person for their release.

“The kidnappers called me last night and said we must pay N1.5 million for each person, regardless of age or gender. But they assured us that our people are in good hands and nothing will happen to them,” Ibrahim said.

The Plateau State Police Command had on Monday confirmed the incident, saying it had commenced an investigation.

Chairman of Wase LGA, Muhammed Hamisu, said helicopters and soldiers have been deployed to locate the whereabouts of the victims. “By the special grace of God, they will be rescued,” he said.

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