33 Abducted, Including 3 Soldiers, at Kogi/Enugu Border by Suspected Kidnappers

Suspected kidnappers abducted 33 passengers, including three soldiers, on Thursday, January 9, 2025, along the Enugu-Ezike-Kogi road in the Ogugu community, Olamaboro Local Government Area of Kogi State.

Details of the Attack

Eyewitness accounts reveal that 17 armed attackers ambushed three 18-seater buses on a bad stretch of the road, forcing the passengers into the bush. Among those abducted were four soldiers traveling from Akwa Ibom to Kaduna in one of the buses.

An eyewitness stated:
“The kidnappers operated for about an hour, attacking three buses and marching at least 35 passengers into the bush. One soldier, who managed to escape, confirmed that they were traveling to Kaduna when the attack occurred.”

Fatalities and Local Response

The kidnappers reportedly killed one victim who was too weak to keep walking during the forced march into the forest. Local hunters and military personnel later recovered the victim’s body.

Surveillance helicopters were spotted hovering over Igbo-Eze North in Enugu State and Olamaboro Local Government Area in Kogi State, sparking fear among residents. However, no visible rescue operation has been reported yet.

Military Confirmation and Investigation

A military signal confirmed the abduction, listing the names of the kidnapped soldiers, who were returning to duty after their leave. Authorities have stated that investigations are ongoing to secure the release of all captives.

The incident has heightened tension in the affected areas as residents call for urgent government action to address the security challenges along the Kogi/Enugu border.