Rampant Kidnappings, Terrorism Grips Northern States – 15,000 Notorious Kidnappers Operating in 40 Camps

In the once serene and resource-rich northern forests, a wave of terror has taken hold, with over 15,000 notorious kidnappers operating in 40 camps across multiple states. The forests, once vital for sustenance, have become havens for evil machinations, destruction, and violence.

Zamfara State stands out as a focal point for these criminal activities. Bandits, staging nefarious operations from its forests, have defied multiple government attempts to dislodge them. Reports indicate that difficult terrains make it challenging for security forces to penetrate and confront these criminals, allowing them to establish operational bases and launch attacks. An official report from the Zamfara State government reveals the alarming presence of over 15,000 bandits in 40 camps, scattered across various forests. Bandit kingpins, including Ali Kachalla and Dogo GiWali, operate fearlessly, causing widespread devastation. The state has endured a tragic toll, with over 15,000 lives lost, 20,000 people injured, and 18,000 villages destroyed since 2009.

In the northeast, Sambisa Forest remains a hotbed for terrorism, firmly controlled by extremist groups. This vast and resource-rich area serves as an epicenter for killings, kidnappings, and terrorism coordination, reminiscent of the infamous Chibok girls’ abduction in 2014.

In Kaduna State, the Birnin-Gwari forest along the Abuja-Kaduna Expressway has become a hotspot for kidnappings. Bandits and terrorists, including the Ansaru group, have entrenched themselves, wreaking havoc on innocent lives. Recent operations led to the elimination of notorious bandit leader Boderi Isyaku, marking a significant milestone in the fight against terrorism.

Benue State faces the expansion of kidnapper bases, particularly in the yam-producing Sankera axis. Criminals exploit thick forests to launch attacks, resulting in tragic outcomes for victims. The death of elder statesman Pa Raymond Erukaa highlights the severity of the situation.

In Plateau State, border communities with Bauchi, Nasarawa, Kaduna, and Taraba states witness frequent kidnappings, killings, and armed robberies. The Pandam Wild Park and hills in various districts serve as havens for criminals.

Burra Forest in Bauchi State harbors criminals who wreak havoc on defenseless citizens in communities along its borders. The forest links to Falgore forest in Kano State and Saminaka in Kaduna State, providing a vast area for bandits and terrorists to operate.

Adamawa’s proximity to the Republic of Cameroun and its mountainous terrain contribute to the state’s challenges. Evil forests in Jumo, Ya din, Chigari, and other areas become hideouts for kidnappers and terrorists. The menace of Boko Haram adds to the security woes, particularly in the Sambisa forest.

In Kwara State, kidnappers and terrorists concentrate around the Afon axis and the vast thick forests along Ogbomosho/Ilorin Expressway. Recent incidents, including the kidnapping of a bride, highlight the extent of criminal activities in these areas.

Kebbi State witnesses concentrated bandit and terrorist operations in thick forests around Zuru Emirate. Criminals utilize a deep tunnel linking Kebbi and Zamfara states to launch attacks, escaping into the darkness to evade security forces.

Taraba State faces kidnapping hotspots along critical access roads, including Wukari-Takum Road, Takum-Katsina-Ala Road, and Bali-Suntai-Takum Road. Criminals block roads, shoot sporadically, and demand ransom, posing a significant threat to residents.

Kidnappings-for-ransom and killings persist in Nasarawa towns, especially around the police mobile training school in Akwanga, Wamba, and Nasarawa-Eggon hills. Criminals loiter around these areas, causing fear among the populace.

Over 65 vulnerable towns and villages in Katsina State bordering Rugu forest witness relentless attacks by bandits and kidnappers. Communities face extortion, looting, and threats from these criminals who operate with impunity.