More than 80 reported abducted in Nigeria as police find human remains

Over 80 people have been reported abducted in Nigeria by armed gangs in recent weekend attacks. In Niger State, at least 47 farmers were kidnapped while harvesting peanuts, and in neighboring Zamfara State, 40 women were abducted. These incidents are attributed to criminal gangs, locally known as "bandits," who frequently engage in ransom kidnappings and cattle rustling. Separately, police in Abia State discovered 28 human skulls and bones at suspected gang camps, believed to belong to kidnapping victims. Authorities are intensifying efforts to apprehend suspects who fled the scene in Abia. Mass abductions for ransom have become a recurring issue in northwestern and north-central Nigeria.

Police in Nigeria's Abia State have recovered the remains of at least 28 people from suspected criminal camps in the Umuaku and Nneato forests. The discovery was made on Saturday following a security operation in the Umunneochi area, prompted by intelligence reports of criminal activity. Suspects reportedly fled upon the arrival of police tactical operatives, who subsequently dismantled the camps. Authorities suspect the remains belong to kidnapping victims, and forensic investigations are underway to establish their identities and the circumstances of their deaths. The incident is expected to renew concerns about kidnapping gangs operating in forests across southeastern Nigeria, which have targeted individuals for ransom. Police have intensified surveillance in the area to apprehend those who escaped.