Some suspected kidnappers who abducted Justice Faruku Hassan Bunza of the Kebbi State High Court have demanded a ₦200 million ransom for his release, as security agencies intensify efforts to rescue the judicial officer safely.
Justice Bunza was abducted from his residence along Zogirma Road in Bunza Local Government Area during the early hours of Sunday. Following the incident, security agencies launched an immediate operation to locate the judge and ensure his safe return.
Kebbi State Commissioner of Police, CP Umar Muhammad Hadejia, confirmed that the abductors contacted members of Justice Bunza’s family and demanded ₦200 million before releasing him.
The police commissioner also disclosed that the kidnappers reached out to a registrar of the High Court in Abuja as part of negotiations over the ransom.
Hadejia said a combined team of police officers was deployed shortly after the abduction was reported. He added that intelligence and tactical personnel, alongside other security agencies, were mobilised to track the criminals and rescue the judge unharmed.
Security operatives have been deployed to forests, suspected escape routes, and possible hideouts believed to have been used by the kidnappers.
The police command has established checkpoints and roadblocks along strategic routes to limit the movement of the criminals and prevent them from relocating the victim.
Surveillance has also been increased across communities and areas considered possible transit points for the abductors.
CP Hadejia expressed confidence that the combined security operation would lead to Justice Bunza’s safe rescue and the arrest of those responsible for the crime.
The police commissioner urged residents to remain vigilant and provide useful information that could assist security agencies in their efforts to rescue the judge and apprehend the kidnappers.
He advised government officials and other prominent individuals to avoid unnecessary late-night travel due to the security challenges in the region.
Hadejia revealed that members of Justice Bunza’s family informed investigators that the judge often travelled at night despite the risks in the area.
In a separate development, the commissioner disclosed that one Abdulaziz Dogo was killed and another suspect, Ibrahim Abdulwahab, was arrested in connection with the abduction of former Kebbi State House of Assembly Deputy Speaker, Muhammad Samaila Bagudo.
Police authorities said investigations and operations are ongoing to track Justice Bunza’s abductors, dismantle their network, and secure the judge’s safe release.
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