Katsina: Bandits kill businessman after collecting ₦5m ransom

A wave of grief has swept through Dandume Local Government Area of Katsina State following the killing of a prominent businessman and farmer, Alhaji Alin Kawo, by suspected bandits despite the payment of a ₦5 million ransom for his release.

The victim was reportedly abducted several days ago while returning from his farm along a rural route on the outskirts of Dandume, an area that has witnessed repeated attacks by armed groups in recent years.

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

Multiple community sources told this newspapper 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.