Nigerian ‘bandit’ gang releases 48 children after ransom payment

In central Nigeria, a criminal gang released 48 children kidnapped three weeks ago after receiving a ransom payment, according to a local chief and a UN source. The bandit gang, known for kidnapping and cattle rustling, targets rural communities for raids and loot. The initial kidnapping occurred on August 5 when 54 children were held captive for three days before being set free without a ransom demand.

However, the children were later seized by another gang, linked to the notorious bandit leader Dogo Gide, who has ties to the Ansaru jihadist group. A UN source confirmed the release of the 48 children, noting that one girl died during the first gang's captivity and five escaped during the second gang's abduction. Despite the heightened violence from bandit and jihadist groups in Niger state, security forces remain understaffed and have limited presence in rural areas.