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ENUGU — Fresh attacks by suspected armed kidnappers in parts of Enugu State have heightened security concerns following the killing of two persons and the abduction of several others in separate incidents in Nsukka and Udi Local Government Areas.

The incidents, which occurred between Friday and Sunday, have reinforced growing fears among residents over the expanding activities of criminal groups, whose operations are increasingly extending beyond highways into residential communities and places of worship.

According to eyewitnesses, the first attack occurred on Friday, July 31, when suspected gunmen, reportedly dressed in military uniforms, mounted a roadblock along the Ugbọgogo–Opi–Nsukka Road between 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.

The armed men were said to have intercepted motorists and commuters, abducting four persons before advancing into Ibagwa Opi Autonomous Community in the Ogbozarra Opi Ancient Kingdom of Nsukka Local Government Area.

Community sources said the assailants abducted additional residents during the invasion and shot dead two people before fleeing the area.

As of press time, those abducted during the attack were still in captivity, while their whereabouts remained unknown.

Residents described the latest incidents as a disturbing escalation in criminal activities, noting that communities are no longer safe as armed groups increasingly target homes and settlements after operating on major roads.

“Our greatest fear is that they have moved beyond attacking travellers on the highways. They now invade villages and communities, making residents feel unsafe even in their own homes,” a community source said.

The security concerns deepened on Sunday, August 2, when another group of suspected gunmen reportedly invaded a church in Affar Community, Udi Local Government Area, during a worship service.

Witnesses said a seminarian and several worshippers were abducted during the attack, which disrupted the service and threw the community into panic.

The latest incidents have renewed calls for stronger security measures to protect lives, businesses and social activities across the affected communities.

Community leaders urged the Enugu State Government and security agencies to intensify surveillance, strengthen intelligence gathering and increase security presence in vulnerable areas to stem the rising wave of kidnappings and violent crimes.

They also appealed to security authorities to ensure the safe rescue of those in captivity and bring the perpetrators to justice.

The attacks underscore the growing security challenges confronting several communities in Enugu State, where recurring incidents of kidnapping continue to affect socio-economic activities, restrict the movement of people and heighten public anxiety.

Residents expressed hope that enhanced security operations and sustained collaboration between law enforcement agencies and local communities would help restore confidence and improve safety across the state.