Armed bandits in northwestern Nigeria abducted at least 39 villagers during a meeting that was intended to discuss possible peace negotiations in Zamfara State.

Authorities said the victims were meeting relatives of a bandit leader when the gang leader arrived with armed men and seized them.

Local residents and officials believe the number of abductees could be closer to 50.

The kidnappers have reportedly demanded 125 million naira in ransom, while some captives were released to deliver the demand to the community, The Guardian has reported.

Security forces have launched efforts to rescue the victims, underscoring the ongoing banditry and insecurity crisis affecting the region.