Armed criminal group kidnaps 45 students in Nigeria

Moscow (ANTARA) - A group of masked gunmen kidnapped at least 45 schoolchildren in an attack on three schools in Nigeria, according to the Punch newspaper, Sunday.

The incident occurred on Friday (May 15) in Oyo State, southwestern Nigeria.

One teacher told Punch that the attackers were a group of young men disguised and wearing masks. Three suspects have been arrested in connection with the incident.

The fight against armed criminal groups remains a major challenge for the Nigerian government. Such groups have established camps in forests across Zamfara, Katsina, Kaduna, Sokoto, Kebbi, and Niger states, from where they launch attacks on nearby communities.

The militants steal livestock and property and also commit killings and kidnappings of local residents.

Source: Sputnik/RIA Novosti-OANA

Translator: Asri Mayang Sari