Armed bandits changed their tactics to successfully abduct the former Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brigadier-General Maharazu Tsiga (rtd.), from his residence, last week.
A source revealed that the kidnappers executed their plan silently, avoiding any confrontation with security forces or local vigilantes to kidnap Brig.-Gen. Tsiga.
The new approach comes as communities increasingly mobilise Community Watch Corps (CWC) vigilante groups for self-defence.
A resident of the area, who spoke under anonymity, expressed dismay over the ease of the abduction.
“Brigadier Tsiga himself opened the door for them, exchanged pleasantries, and was told, ‘We came to take you.’ He even requested to pick his cap before going with them,” the source recounted.
Despite being a trained military officer with a firearm in his possession, Brigadier Tsiga did not resist. “Had he fired a shot, the local Radda boys and vigilante group, who were on standby, would have responded immediately,” the source added.
However, the operation was so discreet that people at a nearby tea joint remained unaware of what was happening.
Following the abduction, the Nigerian Army launched a major offensive against the kidnappers, preventing their attempts to move Brigadier Tsiga out of the country.
Security forces have reportedly blocked all possible escape routes and are intensifying efforts to secure his release.
Although authorities have yet to issue an official statement, report has it that the bandits are demanding for N250 million ramson from his family to release him.
