In Plateau State, kidnappers have demanded a staggering N42 million for the release of 28 travellers abducted in the Zak community, located in the Bashar District of Wase Local Government Area. The kidnappers are requesting N1.5 million for each victim, regardless of age or gender.

The victims were on their way to attend a Maulud in the Sabon Layi community within the same district when gunmen seized them on Sunday night.

Ibrahim Musa, a relative of one of the victims, shared details of the ransom demand, telling reporters, “The kidnappers called me last night saying we must pay N1.5 million for each person, regardless of age or gender. But they assured us they are in good hands and nothing will happen to them.”

Musa expressed his frustration, adding, “I told them we are villagers and don’t have that amount. Things are not easy for us in the village. Many of the victims are teenagers, and their parents can’t afford it. So, I pleaded with them.”

The Plateau State Police Command has since launched an investigation into the abduction incident.

Meanwhile, residents of Wase have called for stronger security measures to combat the increasing incidents of kidnapping, banditry, and cattle rustling that have plagued the region in recent times.