Gunmen dressed in military-style uniforms have killed a Nigerian Army soldier and kidnapped 13 passengers in attacks on two commercial vehicles along the Okene–Auchi highway.
Gatekeepers News reports that Zagazola Makama, a counterterrorism publication, reported that the incident happened around 5:35 pm on Tuesday when the attackers stopped a green Toyota Sienna travelling from Abuja to Delta state with nine passengers on board.
According to the report, six passengers were taken from the Sienna, while three others managed to escape.
Makama added that the same group also intercepted a white Toyota Hiace bus heading from Delta to Abuja with 11 passengers.
The publication said, “Seven passengers were abducted from the Hiace bus, while four were rescued.”
The report further disclosed that a serving noncommissioned officer of Nigerian Army, who was among the passengers and identified himself as a soldier, was shot by the attackers.
The soldier sustained gunshot injuries to his legs and thighs and was later confirmed dead.
Security sources said both vehicles were recovered and taken to a police station, while ammunition shells were found at the scene as exhibits.
The body of the slain soldier was taken to the Okengwe General Hospital mortuary, and statements were collected from the rescued passengers to support ongoing investigations.
Meanwhile, troops have begun joint rescue efforts, including bush searches and heightened surveillance along the highway, to locate the abducted passengers and apprehend those responsible.
Authorities also assured road users that additional measures are being put in place to secure the Okene–Auchi route and prevent further attacks.
