Bandits kill Katsina businessman after N5m ransom payment

Bandits have killed Alhaji Alin Kawo, a prominent businessman and farmer in Dandume Local Government Area of Katsina State, after allegedly collecting a N5 million ransom for his release.

Kawo was abducted a few days ago while returning home from his farm along a rural road on the outskirts of Dandume, an area frequently used by farmers and often targeted by armed groups.

Residents said the attackers abducted him on the route and whisked him away into nearby forested areas.

Multiple community sources told Daily Trust that the abductors later contacted the family and demanded ransom. They said that about N5 million was paid in an attempt to secure his release.

However, despite the payment, the bandits reportedly killed him, triggering anger and renewed fear across the community.

Kawo was widely described as a respected businessman and active farmer who engaged in year-round agricultural activities.

Residents said he provided employment opportunities for youths and supported local food production in the area.

“He was generous and always willing to help. He supported widows, youths and small-scale farmers with seeds and farm inputs. His death is a huge loss to the community,” a resident, who preferred not to be named, said.

His philanthropic activities reportedly cut across religious and social groups, earning him widespread respect in Dandume and surrounding communities.

As of press time, there was no official statement from security agencies regarding the incident.

Efforts to reach the spokesperson of the Katsina State Police Command, DSP Sadik Aliyu, were unsuccessful as calls and messages went unanswered.

Dandume is among several local government areas in Katsina State that have suffered repeated bandit attacks over the years, leading to killings, displacement and economic hardship.

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