Authorities in Kogi State have arrested two suspected members of a kidnapping gang linked to a viral video showing abducted victims being abused while in captivity.
The footage, which has triggered widespread concern, is believed to involve individuals kidnapped on April 13, 2026, from the Odae-Bunu community in Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area.
In a statement released on April 29, the Kabba/Bunu Local Government Authority acknowledged the anxiety caused by the video and reassured residents that coordinated efforts are underway to secure the victims’ release.
According to the statement, signed by the council chairman’s Senior Special Assistant on Information, Communication and Strategy, Nayo Jude Babatunde, actionable intelligence and community support led to the arrest of a key suspect.
Information obtained during interrogation reportedly resulted in the capture of another accomplice, who is now also in custody.
The suspects, said to be natives of Olle-Bunu, have provided critical details to investigators, including suspected locations of the kidnappers’ hideouts.
Authorities disclosed that a large-scale joint security operation—comprising the military, police, Joint Task Force, and more than 100 local vigilantes—is currently ongoing to locate the camps and rescue the victims.
Local sources revealed that the abductors allegedly killed one of the victims and sent footage to the family, followed by another clip showing those still held being assaulted. The kidnappers are reportedly demanding a ransom of ₦500 million for their release.
Among those abducted are said to be members of a royal family, including two queens and their children, who were taken during the attack and moved to a forest location.
In the circulating video, victims can be heard pleading for help in Owé and Bùnú dialects.
A community leader, who requested anonymity, has appealed to Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, security agencies, and concerned Nigerians to urgently intervene and ensure the safe return of those still in captivity.
See the video of the bandits flogging their victims here.
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