Bandits Block Gusau-Funtua Highway, Kidnap Travellers as Military Struggles to Clear Road

• Sep 12, 2024

Gunmen suspected to be bandits have blocked the busy Gusau to Funtua highway in Nigeria, kidnapping an unspecified number of travelers in a bold daylight attack. The incident occurred on Thursday morning, causing panic among commuters and leaving many stranded.

A traveler named Yusuf Tsafe, who is still stuck near the scene, told Channels Television that the bandits appeared around 7 a.m. "They entered the road around 7 a.m., and till around 9 a.m., they were still there," Yusuf said. "We just parked by the roadside waiting for the military to clear the road. We are seeing the bandits taking people inside the bush."

The attackers were reportedly in large numbers, arriving on about 50 motorcycles, each carrying three armed men. They abducted an unknown number of travelers while others watched helplessly. "The military gun truck moved to the area earlier; we were just hearing gunshots, but they are yet to open the road. Till now, no vehicle has been allowed to pass," Yusuf added.

Another source confirmed that the Magazu–Kucheri Road, another route linking Gusau to Funtua, was also blocked by bandits on the same day. "The military men asked us to stop because the bandits blocked the road; we are still waiting for them to clear the road," the source said.

The blockage of these key roads has left many travelers stranded and fearful for their safety. The audacity of the attack, occurring in broad daylight on major highways, raises serious concerns about security in the region. Commuters are growing increasingly anxious as they wait for the military to regain control of the roads.

As of now, local authorities have not provided an official statement on the incident, and the exact number of abducted individuals remains unknown. Military efforts to clear the roads and apprehend the bandits are ongoing, but the situation remains tense.

This alarming event underscores the urgent need for enhanced security measures to protect citizens and restore confidence in the safety of Nigeria's highways. Travelers are advised to exercise caution and stay updated on the situation as it develops.