The dangers of snake-infested forests for kidnapping victims
The recent increase in kidnappings carried out by groups of bandits in several regions of Nigeria has highlighted an additional aspect of the ordeal suffered by the hostages: snakes. Several testimonies from survivors highlighted the fact that bandits do not hesitate to throw their captives into areas infested with venomous reptiles, thus causing additional anxiety among the victims.
The forests of Birnin Gwari in Kaduna, as well as Kala-Balge near Lake Chad, are known to be particularly infested with snakes. The hostages, already traumatized by their captivity, must then face the constant fear of a reptile attack.
The situation is exacerbated by current weather conditions, which encourage snakes to leave their shelters in search of food and fresh air. The nights are particularly distressing for the hostages, exposed to these venomous predators in complete darkness.
The consequences of a snake bite in such circumstances are dramatic. Not only do victims have to fight for their survival in already trying conditions, but the cost of medical treatment is often exorbitant, making access difficult for the most deprived populations.
Faced with this critical situation, Professor Abdulsalam Nasidi, president of the Echitap study group, emphasizes the importance of locally producing effective antidotes against snake venoms. He denounces the fact that victims of snake bites, often economically fragile people, find themselves faced with insurmountable medical costs.
In conclusion, the combination of kidnappings and exposure of hostages to venomous snakes represents an additional and unacceptable danger. There is an urgent need to find solutions to protect vulnerable populations and ensure affordable access to necessary medical treatment in the event of a snake bite.