Three motorists were kidnapped on Monday night by gunmen who launched a brazen attack along the Okene–Kabba highway in Okehi Local Government Area of Kogi State.
The incident occurred around 10:00 p.m., when the attackers blocked the highway using logs of wood, forcing unsuspecting motorists to stop. According to local sources, the gunmen emerged from hiding and fired shots into the air to scare drivers before dragging the victims into the bush.
One of the victims, identified as Salihu Salaudeen, was confirmed kidnapped by his son, Salihu Abdulmumuni, who reported the incident to the police. Abdulmumuni, a resident of Usugwe Estate in Okene, said his father had left for a trip but failed to return, prompting fears that were later confirmed by reports of the kidnapping.
The Kogi State Police Command has launched an investigation into the abduction. A police patrol team deployed to the scene discovered three abandoned vehicles believed to belong to the kidnapped victims. The vehicles included a **Dyna 200 truck with registration number LKJ 389 GYE**, which was left on the side of the road.
Further police investigation confirmed the identities of the abducted motorists as:
-Salihu Salaudeen from Usugwe Estate, Okene
-Shaibu Mohammed from Okene town
-Ibrahim Muritala, said to be based in Lagos
Officers at the scene also recovered three empty cartridge shells, indicating that the attackers fired shots, possibly to intimidate motorists during the ambush.
All recovered vehicles were moved to the nearest police station for safekeeping and further forensic investigation, while security agencies have intensified search efforts to locate and rescue the abducted victims.
Speaking to reporters, a senior police officer who requested anonymity said, “We are doing everything within our power to track the kidnappers and secure the release of the victims. We have already deployed additional tactical units to the surrounding forests and possible hideouts.”
The Okene–Kabba highway is a major link between Kogi and other parts of the North-Central region. In recent times, the route has gained notoriety for violent attacks and kidnappings, particularly during late hours, prompting calls from residents and travellers for improved security presence.
The latest attack has once again raised concerns about the safety of road travel in Kogi State, especially at night. Local residents have urged the government and security agencies to beef up surveillance and deploy more checkpoints along flashpoints such as the Okene–Kabba axis.
Meanwhile, the families of the abducted victims have appealed to the government for swift action, expressing fear over the safety of their loved ones.
“We are pleading with the authorities to help bring back our father and the others. We don’t know their condition, and we are worried sick,” said Abdulmumuni, the son of one of the victims.
No group has claimed responsibility for the abduction, and it remains unclear whether contact has been established between the kidnappers and the victims’ families.
The Kogi State Police Command has called on the public to remain calm and assist with any useful information that could aid the investigation. A hotline has reportedly been opened for anonymous tips, while operatives continue combing the area for leads.
As of the time of this report, there have been no updates on any demands for ransom or negotiations. Police say they are treating the matter as a top priority and will provide further updates as investigations progress.
The government of Kogi State has yet to release an official statement on the incident.
