Kidnappers Demand N200m Ransom for Abducted Kebbi High Court Judge

Kidnappers who abducted Justice Faruku Hassan Bunza of the Kebbi State High Court have demanded N200 million ransom for his release.

The demand was disclosed on Monday by the Kebbi State Commissioner of Police, CP Umar Muhammad Hadejia, while briefing journalists in Birnin Kebbi on the ongoing rescue operation.

According to the police commissioner, intelligence available to the command indicated that the abductors contacted the judge’s family with the ransom demand.

Hadejia also revealed that the kidnappers reached out to a registrar of the High Court in Abuja as part of efforts to negotiate the payment.

*Security Operation Intensified*

The commissioner said tactical and intelligence operatives, alongside other security personnel, have been deployed to comb forests and suspected escape routes believed to have been used by the kidnappers.

He added that security has been reinforced through checkpoints and intensified surveillance across strategic locations to prevent the abductors from moving the victim.

Hadejia expressed confidence that the ongoing operation would lead to the judge’s safe rescue and the arrest of those behind the abduction.

*CP Advises Vigilance*

The police commissioner urged residents to remain vigilant and support security agencies with credible information that could aid the rescue operation.

He assured the public that the command remains committed to securing Justice Bunza’s freedom and bringing the perpetrators to justice.

Hadejia also advised residents, particularly public officials and other prominent individuals, to avoid unnecessary night travel due to prevailing security challenges, noting that such movements often expose travellers to attacks by criminal elements.