Bandit and jihadist violence has escalated in Niger state’s rural, agrarian communities, where armed groups have established camps in forests and game reserves. (EPA Images pic) KANO: A criminal gang released 48 children aged between seven and 12 kidnapped in central Nigeria three weeks ago, after »»»

A criminal gang released 48 children aged between seven and 12 kidnapped in central three weeks ago, after a ransom was paid, a local chief and a UN source told AFP Wednesday. Gangs known locally as "bandits", specialising in kidnapping and cattle rustling, target rural communities in northwest and»»»