An armed group has reportedly taken hundreds of women, children, and elderly individuals captive following an attack on a mosque in Niger State, located in north-central Nigeria. The incident occurred last week, according to local residents, who identified the victims as approximately 600 people.

A video circulating on social media platforms Facebook and WhatsApp showed large numbers of captives seated in a wooded area under the watch of armed men. In the background, the sounds of crying children were audible, highlighting the distress of those held.

Mass kidnappings have become an increasingly frequent occurrence in parts of north-western and north-central Nigeria. Armed gangs routinely raid villages, schools, and highways, abducting residents and travelers. These groups often demand substantial ransom payments in exchange for the release of their captives.

Authorities in Niger State have yet to issue an official statement regarding the mosque attack or provide details on ongoing rescue efforts. The growing incidence of such attacks reflects ongoing security challenges in the region, where government forces have struggled to effectively counter the activities of these heavily armed criminal networks.