Recent reports reveal that bandits operating in Zamfara State, North-West Nigeria, are now accepting ransom payments via electronic bank transfers. On October 3, 2024, it was reported that some terrorists received a ransom of N2 million through a Moniepoint virtual bank account.
According to SaharaReporters, evidence of the transaction shows that the N2 million was deposited into a Palmpay virtual bank account, specifically associated with one Musa Muhammad, who is suspected to be linked to bandit activities in the region.
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This shocking development was highlighted by Bakatsine, a journalist covering conflict and crisis in Nigeria’s Northwest, who shared the information on social media platform X. He disclosed that after the initial payment of N2 million, the bandits demanded additional sums to be delivered to a designated location.
The incident reportedly took place in the Shinkafi Local Government Area of Zamfara State. Bakatsine’s post stated, “Bandits in Zamfara State received ransom through bank transfer. After transferring N2 million to their bank account as requested, they later instructed that additional millions be delivered to a specified location according to my source.”
This new method of receiving ransom payments poses significant challenges for law enforcement and highlights the evolving tactics of criminal groups in Nigeria. The use of digital banking for ransom transactions underscores the need for enhanced security measures and interventions to address the ongoing threat posed by banditry in the region.
