A suspected bandit arrested by vigilantes in Mariga Local Government Area of Niger State has attributed his involvement in banditry and kidnapping to hunger and prolonged hardship.
The suspect, who was among several individuals apprehended this week while allegedly out on an operation, reportedly made the disclosure during his arrest.
According to him, worsening economic hardship and hunger pushed him into criminal activities, including banditry and kidnapping.
His statement offers another perspective on some of the factors that may contribute to the recruitment of individuals into criminal networks in communities affected by insecurity and economic hardship.
However, economic difficulties cannot justify kidnapping, banditry or attacks on innocent civilians. Such crimes continue to threaten lives, livelihoods and the safety of communities across affected areas.
The arrest of the suspect is expected to assist authorities and security stakeholders in further investigations into the activities and networks operating in the area
