The Nigerian media has reported how a group of heavily armed men, abducted at least 20 people in the Dawaki area of Abuja. The daring kidnapping at sunset on Sunday has rattled the capital city, raising fresh security concerns.
Witnesses reported the gunmen, clad in military camouflage and emerging from unmarked vehicles, rounded up residents in a swift operation. Estimates suggest around 20 people, possibly including entire families, were taken.
This audacious act unfolded hours after an earlier daylight attack in Dei-Dei, 12.3 miles from Dawaki, according to Daily Trust. The target of the attack was a senior customs officer, who was seized along with his three children and younger brother. The wife was reportedly spared because she was pregnant.
The Nigerian capital has seen a rise in kidnappings in recent months. The Chief of Dakwa community, Alhassan Musa Babachukuri, told Daily Trust that the armed gangs have established a hideout behind Zuma Rock from which they launch strikes.
—Ezinwanne Onwuka reports for TruthNigeria from Abuja.
