Boko Haram kidnapped 160 villagers, killed 10 in Niger

In a remote community in Nigeria’s central Niger state, reports confirm the loss of ten lives and the abduction of at least 160 villagers.

A significant number of armed individuals, suspected to be affiliated with Nigeria’s militant Islamist organization Boko Haram, reportedly perpetrated an incursion into Kuchi village on Friday evening.

Local official Aminu Abdulhamid Najume conveyed this information during an interview with the BBC’s World Service.

The individuals who were abducted predominantly comprised women and children, whereas the casualties encompassed local hunters who were responsible for providing security in the area, as stated by the source.

The gunmen reportedly rode into Kuchi on motorbikes and even spent time cooking food, making tea and looting houses before leaving more than two hours later.

Mr Najume , who chairs the Council of the Munya Local Government Area, said the Kurchi community had been left traumatised and anxious to hear news of those taken.

Writing on social media, Amnesty International expressed its “deep concern” at the mass abduction.

“The invasion of the village by the gunmen is yet another indication of the Nigerian authorities’ utter failure to protect lives,” it said.

“Since 2021 gunmen have been consistently attacking Kuchi village and raping women and girls in their matrimonial homes.

“From time to time, the gunmen demand millions of Naira as ransom from the people to avoid being kidnapped.

“Amnesty International is calling on the Nigerian authorities to end these spate of abductions and bring suspected perpetrators to justice. Frequent mass abductions and killings are clear evidence of failure of authorities to protect the people.”

Attacks in Niger state have become increasingly common although it has often been unclear if the gunmen have any links to jihadist groups.

Last month several villages were targeted by armed gangs kidnapping for ransom.