Bandits have reportedly killed six kidnapped residents of Kutaho Village in Southern Kaduna despite the payment of ransom by members of the community.
The victims were among several residents abducted during an attack on Kutaho Village in Kagarko Local Government Area of Kaduna State earlier this year.
The attack, which occurred on February 9, 2026, left many families in distress after gunmen stormed the community and whisked away several residents to an unknown location.
POLITICS NIGERIA learned that despite desperate efforts by villagers to secure the release of all abductees, six of the victims were allegedly murdered while in captivity.
The killings have thrown the community into mourning and renewed fears over worsening insecurity across Southern Kaduna.
The deceased victims have been identified as Friday Agama, Kunama Dogo, Monday Tanko, Lami Williams, a victim identified as Pawpaw’s brother, and another identified as Catchiest.
Sources familiar with the development said Friday Agama was reportedly the first victim killed by the kidnappers.
Catchiest was also said to have died after allegedly suffering severe punishment while in captivity.
Residents said the deaths came as a painful shock, especially after the community raised huge sums of money in an effort to secure the release of all those abducted.
Many families reportedly sold personal belongings and pooled resources to meet the demands of the kidnappers.
Despite those sacrifices, the community has now been left devastated by the loss of six residents.
Meanwhile, some of the abducted victims have regained freedom.
Two survivors, identified as Williams Ishaya and Iliya Dauda, were reportedly released by the kidnappers and are currently receiving medical attention in Kachia.
Sources said both men are being treated for injuries and trauma suffered during their time in captivity.
Two other victims, identified as Shedrack and Daniel Ganga, were also reportedly released and were said to be on their way back home at the time this report was filed.
The latest incident has again raised concerns over the persistent security crisis in Southern Kaduna and other troubled parts of the state.
Residents have expressed frustration over continued attacks, kidnappings and killings despite repeated assurances from security agencies and government authorities.
The development has also reignited concerns over the activities of armed groups operating across Birnin Gwari and Southern Kaduna.
Community leaders are now calling for urgent intervention from the Federal Government and security agencies.
They urged authorities to intensify security operations in vulnerable communities and ensure those responsible for the killings are arrested and prosecuted.
As of the time of filing this report, the Kaduna State Police Command had not issued an official statement on the reported killings or the release of the surviving captives.