Two Feared Dead, 30 Travellers Kidnapped by Gunmen

A fresh wave of insecurity has struck Nigeria’s North-Central region after suspected gunmen reportedly killed two travellers and abducted about 30 others during a deadly attack on a passenger vehicle along a highway in Kogi State.

The incident, which has heightened fears among road users, occurred when the armed attackers ambushed a commercial vehicle conveying passengers to their destination. Witnesses said the gunmen opened fire on the vehicle, causing panic among occupants before whisking away dozens of passengers into the surrounding forest.

The attack left two persons dead, while several others reportedly sustained varying degrees of injuries. The abductors subsequently forced approximately 30 travellers into the bush, sparking a large-scale search effort by security operatives.

The latest tragedy has once again exposed the growing security challenges facing commuters across several parts of the Country, particularly on highways that have increasingly become targets for kidnappers and criminal gangs seeking ransom payments.

Global Mirror News gathered that local residents and community leaders have expressed deep concern over the recurring attacks on motorists in the area, calling on the Federal Government and Security Agencies to strengthen surveillance and deploy additional personnel to vulnerable routes.

According to sources familiar with the incident, the attackers operated for a considerable period before fleeing with their captives, raising fresh questions about security coverage along major highways. Families of the abducted victims have since been thrown into anxiety as efforts continue to secure their safe release.

Security Agencies have reportedly launched a coordinated rescue operation and intensified manhunts for the perpetrators. Authorities have also appealed to members of the public to provide credible information that could assist ongoing investigations and rescue efforts.

The attack adds to the growing number of kidnapping incidents recorded across Nigeria in recent months. Despite ongoing Military and Police operations against criminal elements, armed groups continue to target travellers, communities and institutions, particularly in remote areas where security presence is limited.

As rescue efforts continue, many Nigerians are once again calling for urgent and sustained measures to tackle highway insecurity and protect citizens from the increasing threat posed by kidnappers and armed gangs.