Nigeria’s mass-kidnapping crisis and ransom economy

Reports describe 7,825 kidnappings, a 66% annual increase, at least 1,142 deaths, and more than $5 million raised by gunmen. Mass abductions across northwestern and north-central Nigeria have prompted a presidential rescue order; Plateau operations reportedly rescued two victims, arrested 11 suspects, and recovered weapons, while other cases show ransom extraction through banking access and vehicle theft.