Over 340 Nigerian Students Kidnapped Freed After One Week

Islamic Radical Armed Group 'Bogoharam' Claims Responsibility

[Image source=AP Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Jeong Hyunjin] According to reports from AP News and others on the 17th (local time), over 340 teenage male students who were kidnapped by armed militants in Katsina State, northwestern Nigeria, were released after being held captive for a week.

According to the report, Aminu Bello Masari, governor of Katsina State, stated in an interview with local media on the same day, "344 students have been released and handed over to government security forces and are currently returning to Katsina." He added, "I believe most of the kidnapped students have been freed."

The students will have their health checked in Katsina before returning to their families. Governor Masari did not disclose whether a ransom was paid to the militants.

Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari welcomed the release of the students in a statement, saying, "This is a great relief to their families, the entire country, and the global community." He emphasized that amid rising security issues among West African countries, he is aware of the responsibility to protect the lives and property of Nigerians.

The students were kidnapped on the night of the 11th at a boarding school in Katsina State by armed militants. Of the approximately 800 students present at the school, others escaped the crisis by climbing over the walls. Immediately after the incident, the Islamic radical militant group Boko Haram claimed responsibility.

It is known that negotiations have been ongoing between the government and Boko Haram. Boko Haram, whose name means "Western education is forbidden," has previously attacked schools offering Western-style education, killing or kidnapping students.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.