Eleven people abducted by suspected fighters of the Islamic State of the West African Province (ISWAP) in Kinnari Village, Damasak, Borno State, have regained their freedom.
Security analyst Zagazola Makama revealed the development in a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday. According to him, the victims, including a 40-year-old man identified as Tela Bamari, were kidnapped around 12:40 a.m. on July 31.
A source in the village confirmed that the victims were released at about 10:30 p.m. on August 2, following discreet efforts by local community leaders and humanitarian workers.
“After their release, the victims were taken for medical evaluation and subsequently reunited with their families. The Borno State Committee for Victims of Terrorism was also present to receive them,” Makama wrote.
It is still unclear whether a ransom was paid to secure their release. Meanwhile, residents of Kinnari Village have expressed gratitude for the victims’ safe return and called for stronger security measures in the area.
