Ayegunle Att∆ck: Police Nab Suspect, Uncover Alleged Mastermind, Recover 100 Rustled Cattle

The Kogi State Police Command has announced a major breakthrough in its ongoing investigation into the recent attack on Ayegunle Community in Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area and the abductions that occurred along the Kabba–Obajana Road.

According to the Commissioner of Police, CP Naziru Bello Kankarofi, security operatives responded swiftly after receiving reports of gunshots in Ayegunle during the early hours of June 1, 2026. A joint security team comprising personnel of the Nigeria Police Force, Nigerian Army, Department of State Services (DSS), Kogi State Vigilante Service, Forest Guards, Civilian Joint Task Force, and other stakeholders was immediately mobilised to the area.

Investigations revealed that the attack was allegedly masterminded by a notorious bandit leader identified as Batijo. Security intelligence indicates that the operation may have been carried out in response to the arrest of some members of his gang. The attackers were reportedly targeting the traditional ruler of Ayegunle, Oba Sunday Omodamori, but did not meet him at home.

During the invasion, the assailants reportedly abducted three residents, including Ojo Abiodun, Bunmi Sunday, and Chief James Obayomi. While attempting to escape from captivity, Chief Obayomi was reportedly killed, while the remaining victims are still being held by the abductors.

The gunmen later extended their operation to the Kabba–Obajana Road, where they attacked motorists and travellers. A truck driver sustained gunshot wounds to both legs, while passengers travelling in commercial vehicles were abducted. One passenger, identified as Abdullahi Hashimu, lost his life during the attack, while four others suffered injuries and were taken to medical facilities for treatment.

Police said approximately 30 persons, comprising community residents and travellers, were abducted during the incident.

Following an intensive manhunt and intelligence-led operations in nearby forests, security personnel arrested one Ibrahim, said to be a key member of the criminal gang. Authorities also recovered about 100 cattle allegedly rustled by the suspects during their escape.

The police disclosed that information provided by the arrested suspect has led to the identification of other wanted members of the group, including Aliyu, Lamido, Muhadahire, and Kache, with efforts ongoing to apprehend them.

In a move aimed at reassuring residents, CP Kankarofi, accompanied by the Kogi State Director of the DSS and other senior security officials, visited Ayegunle Community to sympathise with victims and engage community leaders. He assured residents that security agencies remain committed to rescuing those still in captivity and bringing all perpetrators to justice.

The Police Command also commended the cooperation among security agencies and local stakeholders, noting that the coordinated response played a key role in disrupting the attackers’ activities and advancing ongoing investigations.