Bombs Prevent Nigerian Police Rescue of 19 Kidnapped Youths in Kaduna State

Nigerian police state that rescue operations for 19 youths abducted in Kaduna State are being obstructed by improvised explosive devices (IEDs). The individuals, ranging from 11 to 20 years old, were taken from the Anguwar Kwakware area of Chikun Local Government Area.

The State Police Public Relations Officer, Mansur Hassan, confirmed the presence of the explosives, which are impeding access to the area where the captives are believed to be held. He assured the public that authorities are actively working on a strategy to neutralise the threat and secure the release of the abductees.

Families of those kidnapped are experiencing significant anguish. One father, whose 15-year-old son is among the captives, described his inability to eat for three days due to overwhelming worry. He recounted how his son was seized after going out to pray and was among a group targeted by the assailants. The man stated he has had no contact with his son since the abduction.

This incident follows a pattern of such kidnappings in Nigeria, a tactic often employed by armed groups to extort ransoms. Civilian harm and the pervasive instability in parts of the country remain critical concerns, with government responses frequently criticised for their perceived inadequacy.