The Kogi State Police Command has recorded a major breakthrough in its ongoing investigation into the deadly bandit attack on Ayegunle Community in Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area and along the Kabba–Obajana Road, leading to the arrest of a key suspect, the identification of other gang members, and the recovery of 100 rustled cattle.

According to the Police Public Relations Officer of the Kogi State Command, ASP Saliu Oyiza Afusat, in a statement issued on Wednesday, the attack occurred in the early hours of June 1, 2026, after security agencies received a distress call at about 2:49 a.m. reporting gunshots in Ayegunle Community.

“In response, the Commissioner of Police, CP Naziru Bello Kankarofi, immediately deployed tactical teams and coordinated a joint security operation involving the Nigeria Police Force, Nigerian Army, Department of State Services (DSS), Kogi State Vigilante Service, Forest Guards, Civilian Joint Task Force, and other security stakeholders.

“Preliminary investigations revealed that the attack was allegedly masterminded by a notorious bandit leader known as Batijo. Security sources said the operation was carried out in retaliation for the arrest of some of his associates.

“The attackers reportedly targeted the traditional ruler of Ayegunle, Oba Sunday Omodamori, with plans to abduct him. However, their mission failed as the monarch was not at home during the invasion.

“The gunmen subsequently invaded parts of the community, abducting three residents identified as Ojo Abiodun, Bunmi Sunday, and Chief James Obayomi. Tragically, Chief Obayomi was killed while attempting to escape from captivity, while the other victims remain in the custody of their abductors.

“After leaving the community, the attackers reportedly moved to the Kabba–Obajana Road, where they blocked the highway and opened fire on motorists. They forcefully stopped a container truck and shot the driver in both legs. Two commercial buses bearing registration numbers ENU 444 ZJ and MKD 698 XH were also intercepted, and several passengers were abducted.

“The criminals further attacked another commercial bus with registration number MKA 837 ZA after the driver refused to stop. The incident claimed the life of a passenger, Abdullahi Hashimu, who died from gunshot injuries, while four others sustained injuries and were rushed to medical facilities in Kabba for treatment.”

Police said approximately 30 persons, including community residents and travellers, were abducted during the coordinated attacks.

As security operatives launched search-and-rescue operations, they tracked the suspects deep into the forest, where investigations led them to a Fulani settlement. There, it was discovered that the attackers had rustled about 200 cattle while retreating from the area.

Sustained pressure from security forces through intelligence-led operations and extensive bush-combing exercises resulted in the arrest of one Ibrahim, described as a core member of Batijo’s criminal network. The operation also forced the fleeing criminals to abandon about 100 of the rustled cattle, which were subsequently recovered.

Police authorities disclosed that the arrested suspect is assisting investigators and has provided useful information that led to the identification of other suspected gang members, namely Aliyu, Lamido, Muhadahire, and Kache. Efforts are ongoing to apprehend the remaining suspects and dismantle the criminal syndicate.

To assess the security situation and reassure residents, CP Kankarofi, accompanied by the Director of the DSS in Kogi State and other senior security officers, visited Ayegunle Community.

During the visit, the police commissioner met with Oba Sunday Omodamori, community leaders, and other stakeholders, expressing sympathy over the incident and assuring residents that security agencies remain committed to rescuing all abducted victims and bringing the perpetrators to justice.

CP Kankarofi also praised the strong collaboration among security agencies and local security groups, noting that the swift and coordinated response significantly disrupted the criminals’ activities, aided the recovery of rustled cattle, and generated vital intelligence for ongoing operations.

The commissioner reiterated the Command’s commitment to strengthening security across Kogi State through intelligence-driven policing, inter-agency cooperation, and proactive crime-fighting measures. He urged residents to remain vigilant and continue providing credible and timely information to security agencies. (Nigerian Tribune)