Tension has risen in the Enugu-Ezike community of Igbo Eze North Local Government Area, Enugu State, following the abduction of over 35 passengers by suspected herdsmen along the Enugu-Nsukka road.
The attack occurred on Thursday, January 9, 2025, when a group of armed herdsmen hijacked three commercial buses.
Among the victims were four Nigerian Army personnel, with one, PTE Usendu Emediong, managing to escape.
However, three soldiers, PTE Usoro Ezekiel Paul, Jeremiah Inimbom Thomas, and PTE Victor Itiat Godwin, remain in captivity.
Eyewitnesses reported that the kidnappers, believed to be 17 in number, held up traffic for about an hour, forcing all passengers into the bush.
One resident described the scene: “Not far from my home, 17 Fulani herdsmen ambushed three 18-seater buses and kidnapped at least 35 passengers. The victims were marched into the bush, and one soldier managed to escape and told us what happened.”
Reports from local hunters revealed that one of the abductees was killed after reportedly collapsing from exhaustion during the forced march. His body was later recovered and taken to the morgue by military operatives.
The abduction has caused fear in the community, prompting military helicopters to be deployed in search of the captives.
However, there are concerns that the kidnappers may have already moved their victims out of the area.
A military signal obtained by SaharaReporters confirmed the incident, with Major AE Edet stating that investigations are underway and urging swift action to rescue the victims.