Tension has gripped the Maraba Gurgu community on the outskirts of Lafia, Nasarawa State, after unknown gunmen abducted two individuals, including the daughter of a High Court judge.
The incident occurred around 7:15 p.m. on Wednesday evening when the attackers stormed the residence of the judge. The victims have been identified as Hauwa Anisa Shikaru, the daughter of the judge, and a young man named Abdulkarim Ahmed Iliyasu.
Eyewitnesses said the gunmen carried out the attack swiftly, taking the victims and disappearing into the nearby bush before security agents or residents could intervene.
According to local sources, the attackers were heavily armed and operated with precision, suggesting prior surveillance of the area and their targets.
A community member, who preferred not to be named for security reasons, said:
“They came in quickly and left before anyone could understand what was happening. We heard loud voices, then silence, and later realised two people had been taken.”
The motive behind the abduction remains unclear, but residents suspect it may be linked to ransom demands or a targeted attack due to the identity of one of the victims.
Shortly after the incident, security agencies and community vigilante groups were mobilised to begin a search operation aimed at rescuing the victims and capturing the perpetrators.
Confirming the incident, a local leader identified as Makama said efforts are ongoing to locate the kidnappers.
“We have mobilised a search team. Everyone is working together — the police, vigilantes, and some volunteers to track down the criminals and ensure the safe return of the victims,” he said.
As at press time, no group has claimed responsibility for the abduction, and the families of the victims are yet to receive any demands.
The Nasarawa State Police Command is yet to release an official statement, but community members are calling for increased security presence in the area to prevent further attacks.
This incident adds to the growing concerns over the rising cases of kidnapping and insecurity in parts of Nasarawa State and the wider North Central region.
