Bandits kill one, abduct over 30 in midnight raid on Kogi community

More than 30 people were reportedly kidnapped, and one person was killed when suspected bandits launched a predawn attack on Ayegunle Bunu community in Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State on Monday, sparking fresh concerns over worsening insecurity along major routes in the state.

The attack, which residents said occurred at about 2:25 a.m., threw the community into panic as heavily armed assailants stormed the area, shooting sporadically and abducting scores of victims.

Preliminary reports indicated that one resident was killed during the invasion, while another sustained injuries and is receiving treatment.

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Sources within the community disclosed that two residents of Ayegunle Bunu — a man and a woman — were among those abducted by the attackers.

However, the majority of those kidnapped were said to be passengers travelling in a commercial bus that was intercepted by the gunmen while passing through the area. The passengers were reportedly forced out of the vehicle and marched into the bush by the attackers.

The latest incident underscores growing fears over the security situation in parts of Kogi State, particularly along highways and rural communities that have witnessed a series of kidnappings and attacks by armed criminal groups in recent months.

Residents said the attack lasted for several minutes before the gunmen fled with their captives, leaving behind a trail of fear and confusion. Community members were said to have launched efforts to account for missing persons and assist victims affected by the incident.

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As of the time of filing this report, security agencies had yet to issue an official statement on the attack. Authorities were yet to confirm the exact number of those abducted, although local sources maintained that more than 30 persons were taken away.

Efforts were ongoing to obtain further details on the operation, including whether security forces had launched rescue efforts or made any arrests in connection with the incident.

The attack adds to a growing list of abductions targeting travellers and rural communities across parts of the North-Central region, raising renewed calls for stronger security measures to protect residents and commuters.