Panic has gripped residents of Yagba West Local Government Area in Kogi State after suspected kidnappers reportedly amputated the hands of their captives before releasing them—without making any ransom demands.
Among the victims is Lanlege Adewale, a resident of Ogbe near Egbe, who was abducted on Saturday. Shockingly, his captors severed one of his hands before letting him go free. According to eyewitnesses, the attackers made no attempt to negotiate with his family or demand payment.
Two other individuals, including a commercial driver and an unidentified man, also suffered similar injuries. Both are now receiving treatment at a hospital in Egbe, with one reported to be in a critical state.
Sources said the incident occurred after five passengers were kidnapped on Saturday while traveling between Egbe and Ikoro. The gunmen, dressed in military fatigues and armed with AK-47s, stopped their vehicle and whisked the occupants—two men and three women—into the surrounding forest using motorcycles.
“They were ambushed and taken into the forest that links Kogi, Kwara, and Ekiti states,” said Olaoye Adeola, a local resident. “It’s terrifying that people can go through such horror and be released without a ransom.”
A relative of Adewale, who requested anonymity, said the family was left shocked that he survived after bleeding for hours in the forest with no immediate medical help.
Another victim, whose identity has not been confirmed, is reportedly fighting for his life after suffering similar injuries. A driver who underwent a comparable ordeal weeks ago also remains in critical condition at the same hospital.
“These incidents have caused widespread fear in Yagba,” said Babajide, a resident of Egbe. “The community is horrified by this new pattern of brutality.”
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