Gunmen Abduct Woman, K!ll Retired Army Officer in Midnight Attack Near Abuja

Suspected gunmen have abducted a woman and killed a retired Nigerian Army officer during a midnight attack on a residential community along the border between the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and Nasarawa State.

The incident reportedly occurred at about 12:45 a.m. on Friday, July 3, 2026, at Plot 038, PGC Community, a settlement bordering Jikwoyi in the FCT.

According to police sources, the attackers stormed the residence of Silas Orite, 46, and forcibly abducted his wife, Bukola Oluwatoyin Silas, 40, before fleeing with her to an unknown destination.

The sources disclosed that the Community Chief Security Officer (CSO), Master Warrant Officer Reuben Yelwa, 61, a retired Nigerian Army personnel, responded after learning of the attack in an effort to assist the family and repel the assailants.

However, the retired soldier was reportedly shot during the confrontation and died from his injuries at the scene.

Following a distress call, police officers and other security personnel arrived at the community, where they documented the crime scene and commenced a full-scale investigation into the attack.

Security agencies have since launched a manhunt for the kidnappers and intensified efforts to rescue the abducted woman safely.

Authorities also said area domination and confidence-building patrols have been strengthened around the affected community and adjoining areas to forestall further attacks and reassure residents.

The latest incident adds to growing concerns over recurring cases of kidnapping and violent attacks in communities located along the boundary between the Federal Capital Territory and neighbouring Nasarawa State, where residents have repeatedly called for stronger security measures to curb criminal activities.