In a series of disturbing events, both Nigeria and Kenya are grappling with incidents of abduction and disappearances, raising concerns about security and the rule of law. In Nigeria, Benue State police successfully rescued 14 passengers who were abducted from a Benue Links bus, while families in Kenya are desperately seeking answers following the mysterious disappearances of their loved ones.

Nigeria: Benue Links Bus Attack and Rescue

On April 3, 2025, a Toyota Hiace bus operated by Benue Links Transport Company was attacked by armed kidnappers while traveling from Makurdi to Otukpo. The assailants opened fire on the driver and a passenger, causing the bus to halt. While other passengers were whisked away, the injured driver and passenger were rushed to the hospital, where they were later pronounced dead. The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), CSP Catherine Anene, issued a statement detailing the incident and the subsequent rescue operation.

In response to the attack, a joint team comprising police officers and members of the Benue State Civil Protection Guard launched a search operation in the nearby forest. On April 4, 2025, they encountered the kidnappers and engaged them in a gun duel. The police's superior firepower forced the bandits to flee, abandoning their captives. Unfortunately, before their escape, the kidnappers had inflicted machete wounds on two of the victims. All fourteen victims were rescued and taken to the hospital. Sadly, one of them succumbed to their injuries and was confirmed dead, while the others are currently receiving medical treatment.

The Commissioner of Police, Benue State Command, CP. Steve H. Yabanet FCID, expressed his condolences to the families of the three passengers who lost their lives in the tragic incident. He also pledged his commitment to bringing the perpetrators to justice.

Kenya: Mysterious Disappearances in Nairobi and Mombasa

Meanwhile, in Kenya, families in Nairobi and Mombasa are in anguish as they search for their missing loved ones. In Mombasa, Yusuf Ali Abdi, a well-known businessman at Marikiti Market, disappeared on April 2 after leaving home for prayers at a nearby mosque. His relative, Jamila Duba, stated that he never arrived at the mosque, and despite extensive searches, his whereabouts remain unknown. His phone was found at home, and efforts to trace his location have been unsuccessful.

His friend, Shariff Abdallah, emphasized that Yusuf was a respected businessman in the community. The disappearance has triggered protests in Mombasa's central business district, with traders and residents demanding justice and accountability from the authorities.

In Nairobi, two other families are also grappling with the unknown. Idd Rashid Mubarak, 29, who worked at a local shop in South C, has been missing since April 3. His cousin, Zein Salmin, reported that Mubarak closed his shop that evening and never returned home. His phone has been off, and there has been no communication. Despite reporting the case to the Akila Police Station, the family says little has been done to locate him.

In another troubling incident, 23-year-old Peter Gachanja from Umoja Estate was reportedly abducted by armed men on March 27. According to his friend, Peter Kiragu, Gachanja was walking with a cousin and a friend when they were approached by three men armed with AK-47 rifles. While Kiragu escaped, Gachanja was taken, and his whereabouts remain unknown. More than a week has passed since Gachanja’s disappearance, and his family suspects that the men may have been police officers. Authorities are yet to confirm any arrests or release a statement regarding the disappearances.

Government Response and Concerns

President William Ruto has addressed the issue of abductions, particularly targeting young Kenyans who have been critical of the government. Speaking in Homa Bay on December 27, 2024, Ruto vowed to put an end to these acts of violence. The president attributed the abductions to a lack of discipline among the youth, urging them to avoid irresponsible behaviors that could lead to trouble. Ruto also called on parents to play an active role in protecting their children and guiding them towards becoming responsible citizens.

These incidents in both Nigeria and Kenya highlight the urgent need for improved security measures and thorough investigations to ensure the safety and well-being of citizens and to bring perpetrators of these heinous acts to justice.