Kogi Highway Terror: Deadly Ambush on Commercial Bus Leaves One Dead, Dozens Abducted

In a distressing incident in the early hours of Monday, June 1, 2026, suspected terrorists launched an attack on a commercial bus traveling along the Ayegunle Bunu community in the Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State. The assault, reported to have occurred around 2:25 a.m. by local news publications like Egbe Mekun Parrot and SaharaReporters, and around 3:30 a.m. by military analyst Deji Adesogan citing security sources, resulted in casualties and numerous abductions.

The attackers, identified as suspected terrorists or armed kidnappers, barricaded the highway and opened fire on commuters. Initial reports indicated one person was killed and over 30 individuals were abducted. Among those seized were two residents of Ayegunle Bunu, a man and a woman, with the majority of victims being passengers from the intercepted commercial bus.

Following a distress call, troops from the Nigerian Army's 12 Brigade in Kabba swiftly mobilized to the scene. Upon their arrival, the assailants had already fled. The responding soldiers discovered two bodies and five injured victims, correcting earlier reports of a single fatality. Additionally, abandoned vehicles, including two Toyota buses and a HOWO truck, were found at the site.

A pursuit operation was immediately initiated by the troops along suspected escape routes. Under pressure from the advancing soldiers, the kidnappers abandoned 23 of their captives, who were then safely evacuated. The injured victims were promptly taken to St. Joseph Hospital, Kabba, for medical treatment.

Military sources, as conveyed by Deji Adesogan, confirmed that efforts are actively underway to track down the fleeing attackers and secure the release of any remaining hostages. Furthermore, surveillance and clearance operations have been intensified across the affected axis to prevent future incidents and ensure the safety of road users in the region.