By Veritas News Hub Crime Desk | Lokoja, Kogi State.
LOKOJA— The Kogi State Police Command has confirmed that 30 persons were abducted and two others killed after armed bandits attacked Ayegunle Bunu community in Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area in the early hours of Monday, June 1, 2026.
Police spokesperson, ASP Afusat Oyiza Saliu, said the attack occurred around 2:25am when gunmen invaded the community and intercepted travellers passing through the area. The assault left residents and commuters trapped as the bandits opened fire before dragging victims into the bush.
According to the police, 26 males and four females were abducted during the raid. The two deceased victims have been identified as Abdullahi Hashimu, a 22-year-old passenger from Igabi Local Government Area, and Chief James Obayomi, 65, who was among residents abducted from Ayegunle village before being killed.
Community sources told Veritas News Hub that the victims included both residents of Ayegunle Bunu and passengers travelling in a commercial bus that was intercepted by the attackers. Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic as the bandits shot sporadically and forced people out of vehicles before marching them into nearby forest areas.
The police said security agencies have launched a search-and-rescue operation to free the abducted victims and apprehend those responsible. ASP Saliu assured that tactical teams have been deployed to comb the forest and surrounding areas in Kabba-Bunu LGA.
The attack adds to growing concerns over insecurity along Kogi’s rural routes and border communities, where travellers and residents have increasingly become targets of banditry and kidnapping.
Local leaders and residents have called on government and security agencies to strengthen patrols and surveillance in Kabba-Bunu to prevent further attacks. They also urged for immediate action to secure the release of the 30 abducted persons, many of whom are said to be breadwinners in their families.
As of press time, no group has claimed responsibility for the attack, and the police said investigations are ongoing.
Veritas News Hub will provide updates as security agencies release more information on the rescue operation and the identities of other victims.
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