Released former ‘kidnap kingpin’, Wadume receives heroic welcome in Taraba

Former kidnap kingpin, Hamisu Bala, who was sentenced to seven years imprisonment, has finally regained his freedom.

Bala, who is popularly known as Wadume, was charged in 2019 alongside a police inspector and other suspects.

The suspects, who were prosecuted by the office of the then Attorney General of the Federation on a 13-count charge were jailed in July 2019, by the federal high court presided over by Justice Binta Nyako.

Wadume arrived at his country home in Ibi local government council of Taraba State, weekend, as a freeman.

DAILY POST reports that he was given a heroic welcome by the people.

“The elders and youths trooped out to receive Wadume by the river side and from there he went through the town before retiring to his house,” said a source who craved anonymity.

Another source, who gave his name as Ismaila, said the council was thrown into festival mood the very day Wadume completed his jail term9

It was gathered that upon arrival, Wadume stormed the palace of the Chief of Ibi, Alhaji Salihu Danbawuro, and paid glowing tribute to the monarch whom he claimed stood solidly by him throughout his ordeal.