10-Year-Old Boy Brutally Murdered by Kidnappers in Plateau State After Partial Ransom Payment
The Rikkos community in Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State was thrown into mourning after the tragic murder of 10-year-old Tasi’u Abdullahi by his kidnappers, despite a partial ransom payment made by his family.
Tasi’u was abducted on Monday, December 16, near his family’s residence. According to his uncle, Aliyu Muhammad, the boy was lured away by unidentified individuals in front of their home. Days later, the abductors contacted the family, demanding N50,000 for the child’s feeding and a ransom of N1 million for his release.
Following rounds of negotiations, the family managed to convince the kidnappers to accept N300,000. An initial payment of N150,000 was transferred to the abductors as instructed. However, the tragic turn of events left the family and the community in shock and grief.
Despite the family’s efforts to secure the boy’s freedom, his lifeless body was discovered in a sack near their home on Friday. A woman reportedly called the family the day after the ransom payment to inform them of the boy’s death.
“Upon examining the body of the deceased, we observed that our son had been strangled, with blood coming out of his nose and mouth,” Mr. Muhammad revealed during an emotional briefing with newsmen on Tuesday.
Local authorities confirmed the arrest of two suspects in connection with the gruesome crime. The suspects are currently in custody as the investigation continues. Security agencies have vowed to bring all those involved in the heinous act to justice.
The incident has sparked outrage and grief within the Rikkos community and beyond. Residents are calling on the government and law enforcement agencies to intensify efforts to curb the growing menace of kidnappings and ensure the safety of children in the region.
Tasi’u’s family is demanding justice for their son, urging authorities to make an example of the culprits to deter future occurrences. “We need justice for our son. He was innocent and did not deserve such a cruel end,” Mr. Muhammad said, his voice heavy with emotion.
The tragic death of Tasi’u Abdullahi underscores the alarming insecurity in parts of Nigeria, where kidnappings and violent crimes continue to plague communities. As investigations unfold, the Rikkos community hopes for swift action to bring the perpetrators to justice and restore peace to the area.