Terrorists who raided Ruwan-Jema in Zamfara State and kidnapped over 20 women, including their children, have demanded petrol and recharge cards as ransom to set free the captives.
The assailants, according to HumAngle, raided about 16 communities between July 25 to 31.
“The armed gang spent seven days in my area, Ruwan-Rana, and other neighbouring villages and communities,” said Magaji Bunun, the village head of Ruwan-Rana. “I can authoritatively tell you that they have gone with over 30 of our people from Ruwan-Jema as their captives, most of whom are married women and their children,” Village Head of Ruwan-Rana, Magaji Bunun Ruwan-Rana.”
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Two of the victims were, however, released around 10pm on July 30, WikkiTimes gathered. Prior to their release, they had been asked to purchase eight jerricans of fuel and N5,000 worth of MTN and Airtel recharge cards.
Jamilu Sarkin Fawa, 32, a resident of Ruwan-Jema, who narrowly escaped the kidnap, said many people are still suffering in captivity.
“We are completely in disarray because the armed gang has terrorised and disbanded us. We have already dispersed across different places,” he said tearfully.
“Our trouble is that the marauding terrorists are still in our villages. For our loved ones to be released, they mandated us to purchase for them 30 jerricans of fuel and ₦20,000 worth of recharge cards for MTN and Airtel networks. And there is no way for our village people to easily meet to discuss and resolve to contribute money and get this done.” he added.
Ruwan-Jema is situated in the Bukuyum area of Zamfara. It has, over time, become one of the strongholds of criminal elements. The terrorists are reported to have situated about four camps in the area.
Hafsah Muhammed Ibrahim, from Bauchi State, is a literary enthusiast and an advocate for women’s rights. As the Editor and Lead Podcaster at WikkiTimes, she draws on her background in Sociology and Education to create compelling narratives that amplify the voices of marginalized communities.
An avid Scrabble player and tea enthusiast, Hafsah blends her passion for storytelling with a strong commitment to driving social change.
