A pregnant woman, a nursing mother, another woman, and her four children have been rescued after 50 days in captivity by armed bandits in Kaduna State, marking a significant development in the ongoing struggle against insecurity in the region. The victims were released on Thursday, May 7, 2026, and returned to their homes in Sabon Gyero community, Millennium City, Chikun Local Government Area, to the joy and relief of their families and neighbours. The abduction occurred four days before the end of the Ramadan fast, when armed bandits invaded the community, killing one person and taking seven individuals hostage.
The attack on Sabon Gyero was part of a broader pattern of violence affecting nearby communities such as Dokan Mai-Jama’a, Kyauta, and Dan Hono II in the same area. Residents have reported repeated bandit raids this year, highlighting the worsening security situation in the region. The attackers reportedly stormed a phone charging centre during the assault, where they killed a young man identified as Abdullahi Lawal, popularly known as “Kurma.” His death has further deepened the fear and trauma among community members.
According to sources, negotiations between the captors and the victims’ families led to the release of the hostages. Ransom money and motorcycles were allegedly delivered to the kidnappers as part of the deal. One of the pregnant women had been freed about three weeks earlier, while the remaining six victims — including the nursing mother, another woman, and her four children — were released on May 7. The return of the hostages was met with celebrations in the community, as residents expressed gratitude for their safe return.
Despite the rescue, the Kaduna State Police Command has not officially confirmed the incident. The spokesman, ASP Mansir Hassan, could not be reached for comment, leaving some uncertainty about the full details of the operation. However, the release of the hostages after 50 days underscores the persistent threat posed by armed bandits in northern Nigeria, particularly in areas like Millennium City, which have become hotspots for criminal activity.
The incident also highlights the vulnerability of civilians, especially women and children, in conflict zones. The prolonged captivity of the pregnant and nursing women raises concerns about their health and well-being, even after their release. As the government continues to grapple with insecurity, communities in Kaduna and surrounding areas remain on edge, hoping for stronger security measures to prevent future abductions and violence. The rescue brings temporary relief, but the broader challenge of restoring peace and safety in the region remains urgent.
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