Two children die following release from seven-month captivity in Nigeria

Two young girls have died shortly after being released from a seven-month kidnapping ordeal in Kaduna state, Nigeria. The victims, 4-year-old Silvia Samuel and 13-year-old Hasana Bulus, were among a group of 11 Christians abducted by armed Fulani gunmen from Awon village on April 20. While five captives were released on November 2, both girls succumbed to illnesses and the effects of severe deprivation shortly after regaining their freedom.

Local residents and Amnesty International reported that the group endured harsh conditions during their captivity. Among those who died while held by the gunmen were Silvia’s mother, Joy Samuel, who passed away after giving birth to a child who also did not survive, as well as 34-year-old Yusuf Bawa and his 5-year-old son. According to area resident Jethro Daniel, the release of the five survivors was secured following the payment of a ransom consisting of three motorcycles and 2 million naira per person.