Kidnappers free couple, daughter after N50m ransom payment in Katsina

A couple and their young daughter abducted last month in Katsina State have regained freedom after their family allegedly paid N50 million ransom to their captors.

The victims, identified as 33-year-old Anas Ahmadu, his wife, Halimatu, and their daughter, Jidda, were taken from their residence at Filin Canada Estate in Katsina metropolis on August 26. During the attack, the gunmen shot and killed a 25-year-old local vigilante, Abdullahi Muhammad.

The abductors initially demanded N600 million for the victims’ release but later agreed to N50 million after several rounds of negotiations, sources close to the family disclosed. The victims were freed late Thursday evening.

Police authorities had earlier confirmed the abduction, saying the command had launched an investigation and deployed additional personnel to rescue the victims and apprehend the suspects.

However, the command has yet to officially comment on their release.

Family sources hinted that the abduction might have specifically targeted Halimatu, whose father is a wealthy figure in the state.

Speculation also arose that an insider may have tipped off the kidnappers, given that the victims lived in the heart of Katsina city.

The incident has renewed concerns about the role of informants in aiding abductions and worsening insecurity in the state.