Bandits in Sokoto state have kidnapped 21 Intending pilgrims on their way to Hajj Camp for take off to this year’s Hajj Pilgrimage from Isa LGA of the state.
Speaking to Radio Nigeria on a telephone call, Permanent Secretary Sokoto state Pilgrims Welfare Board, Alhaji Shehu Muhammad Dange said the victims were kidnapped at Gundumi village alongside security escort and some members of their families who accompanied them.
Also contacted on telephone, the Police Public Relation Officer, in the state said he is attending seminar in Kano state stressing that he is not aware of what is happening in Sokoto State.
In a related development, the Commissioner for Information, Alhaji Isah Bajini Galadanci issued a press statement confirming that the victims and security men escorting them, were held up by suspected bandits operating on the corridor linking the eastern part of the state.
According to the statement, all the 21 Intending pilgrims and the security escort as well as their relatives were rescued.
The statement added that the intending pilgrims were received by Government officials and they are now waiting for their scheduled flight.
However, the statement did not reveals who are responsible for their rescue.
NASIR MALALI
