Informant Exposes Kaduna Bandits’ Ransom Scheme

N200,000 from N13m Ransom: A Shocking Confession

Ado Haruna, a 50-year-old resident of Angwa Kanawa Dutse Abba in Kaduna State, has confessed to orchestrating the abduction of his nephew, Alhaji Bashiru Anas, and his family. Despite facilitating a ransom payment of ₦13 million, four new motorcycles, and ₦300,000 worth of Airtel recharge cards, Haruna received only ₦200,000 for his role.

Haruna led three bandits—Shago Yaro, Tanimu Ayuba, and Lamido Dantajiri—to his nephew’s residence under the pretense of being a victim. When they found Alhaji Anas absent, they abducted his two wives, three children, younger brother, and his brother’s wife. The captives were held for 60 days in Buruku Sabo Birni while negotiations ensued.

Upon arrest by the Intelligence Response Team (IRT), Haruna admitted to his involvement, stating, “I led the bandits to his house but didn’t let him see me… The bandits were paid over ₦10 million as ransom… but I was given ₦200,000 as my share.”

This incident highlights the complex dynamics of kidnapping operations in Nigeria, where informants within communities facilitate abductions for financial gain. The Nigerian police continue to combat such internal collaborators to curb the menace of kidnapping.