Bandits free 100 victims after Niger village raid

More than 100 residents of Maburya community in Mariga Local Government Area of Niger State have been released by bandits who abducted them in a Saturday night raid, sources said.

Some people, whose numbers remain unknown, are still being held in captivity, with an assurance from the bandits to free them soon.

The bandits had invaded Maburya via Bangi on the night of September 12, this year, shooting into the air and taking more than 100 people. Elderly, expectant mothers and nursing mothers, were released early, while others are still being held.

Sources confirmed the bulk of the captives had regained their freedom by Monday.

The state Police Command confirmed the incident.

“On 13/9/2026 about 8pm, report received from Bangi Division indicated that suspected bandits invaded Maburya village via Bangi and abducted unspecified number of victims, later released elderly and pregnant women, including nursing mothers while others were taken away.

“Police and military tactical teams have been deployed to the location, while rescue effort is intensified. Further development will be made available to the public”, the statement read.

Authorities have not confirmed the number of people released, or those still held.

The raid is the latest in a series of mass abductions across Mariga and nearby communities. The area’s proximity to Kainji Lake National Park and forest reserves has long given cover to armed groups.

Security forces, including the Nigerian Air Force, have conducted operations there, with previous rescues of smaller groups of victims earlier in 2026, but attacks have continued.

Families of those freed expressed relief after days of anxiety while the relatives of the remaining captives are left with hope waiting for their releases. Local sources said no details have emerged on whether any conditions were attached to the releases.