Video appears to show 600 people abducted in Nigeria mosque attack

Reuters has not independently verified the authenticity of the video, and police and state authorities have not responded to requests for comment. Mass kidnappings for ransom have become a frequent occurrence in northwestern and north-central Nigeria, with armed gangs often raiding villages, schools, and highways.

The video emerged two days after gunmen attacked worshippers at the mosque in Dekara village during Friday prayers, subsequently taking people away. Residents also reported simultaneous raids on several other communities. While police had previously confirmed an attack in the area, they could not verify the number of abductees.

In the footage, a gunman speaking in Hausa addressed the families of the captives, stating, "These are all your people. We are showing you this video so that you can identify your family members, your fathers, mothers, children and relatives." A resident named Jamilu Ibrahim appealed to federal and state authorities to secure the release of the captives, highlighting the presence of mothers with infants and young children in the video.