The Kogi State Police Command has arrested a key suspect linked to the deadly bandit attack on Ayegunle Community in Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area, just as it confirmed that about 30 persons were abducted during the coordinated assault that targeted residents and motorists along the Obajana-Kabba Road.
The command described the arrest as pivotal in its ongoing efforts to apprehend all those responsible for the attack, which left communities traumatized and several victims still in captivity.
In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Afusat Saliu, the command identified the suspect as Ibrahim, said to be a core member of the criminal network operated by a notorious bandit kingpin known as Batijo.
According to the police, preliminary investigations revealed that Batijo masterminded the attack and ordered the invasion of Ayegunle Community as retaliation for the arrest of some of his associates by security operatives.
“Intelligence gathered so far indicates that the attack was carried out in retaliation for the arrest of some associates of the gang leader,” Saliu stated.
The police disclosed that the traditional ruler of Ayegunle Community, Oba Sunday Omodamori, was the principal target of the bandits, with the attackers allegedly plotting to abduct him.
“The hoodlums specifically targeted the traditional ruler of the community. However, their plan failed because the monarch was not at home when they invaded the area,” the police spokesperson said.
Unable to carry out the abduction, the gunmen reportedly ransacked parts of the community and kidnapped three residents identified as Ojo Abiodun, Bunmi Sunday and Chief James Obayomi.
Tragically, Chief Obayomi was later killed by his captors while attempting to escape.
“Sadly, Chief James Obayomi lost his life while trying to escape from captivity. The other victims remain in the custody of the criminals,” Saliu added.
The police further revealed that after attacking the community, the armed men moved to the busy Kabba–Obajana Road where they blocked the highway and opened fire on moving vehicles in a bid to force motorists to stop.
During the attack, a container truck was intercepted and its driver shot in both legs.
The attackers also reportedly stopped two commercial buses and abducted several passengers, bringing the total number of persons kidnapped during the operation to about 30.
“The Command can confirm that approximately thirty persons, comprising residents of Ayegunle Community and passengers travelling in commercial vehicles, were abducted during the attack,” the statement said.
Saliu said security operatives had intensified efforts to rescue the victims and dismantle the criminal network behind the assault.
“The arrest of the suspect marks a major operational success, but efforts are ongoing to apprehend other members of the gang and ensure the safe rescue of all victims,” she said.
The command assured residents that tactical teams and other security assets had been deployed to track down the fleeing suspects and restore confidence in the affected communities.
“We remain committed to bringing all perpetrators of this heinous attack to justice. Residents are urged to remain calm and continue supporting security agencies with credible information that can aid ongoing operations,” Saliu stated.
Police said investigations are continuing, while the arrested suspect is assisting detectives with information expected to lead to the arrest of other members of the criminal syndicate and their leader, Batijo.
