Bandits abduct 18 children fetching firewood in Katsina

Bandits have abducted 18 children who were fetching firewood in Kasai community, Batsari LGA of Katsina state.

The incident was said to have occurred around 7:30 am on Monday.

Suleiman Kasai, a resident of the community, said the number of abductees could be higher as many children were on their way to fetch firewood when the incident happened.

Abubakar Aliyu, spokesperson of the Katsina police command, confirmed the abduction.

He said the police is collaborating with other security agencies to ensure the safe return of the children.

“18 children who went to get firewood were kidnapped by bandits,” Aliyu said.

“At the moment, we are collaborating with other security agencies to ensure the safe return of the children and to apprehend the perpetrators. Further development will be communicated.”

There has been a spike in the spate of abductions for ransom, in Nigeria’s northern region, in recent times.