Bandits Kill Six Kidnapped Residents Despite Ransom Payment in Southern Kaduna

Bandits have killed six residents of Kutaho Village in Kagarko Local Government Area, Southern Kaduna, even after their community paid a substantial ransom. The victims were abducted during a raid on February 9, 2026, and sources say Friday Agama was the first executed, followed by Kunama Dogo, Monday Tanko, Lami Williams, a man known only as Pawpaw's brother, and another captive called Catchiest who died after severe punishment.

Two survivors, Williams Ishaya and Iliya Dauda, have regained freedom and are receiving medical treatment in Kachia for injuries and trauma. Shedrack and Daniel Ganga were also released and are on their way home. Residents pooled resources and sold personal belongings to raise the ransom, but the killings still happened.

This incident has reignited anger over the government's rehabilitation policy for so-called repentant bandits operating in Birnin Gwari and Southern Kaduna. Community leaders are calling on the Federal Government and security agencies to step up protection for vulnerable communities. As of this report, the Kaduna State Police Command has not officially confirmed the deaths.