Suspected bandits have abducted nine mourners and briefly taken away the corpse of a deceased Deputy Corps Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Augustine O. Ikwue, during an attack on a funeral convoy in Kogi State.

The incident occurred along the Ochadamu–Ejule road in Ofu Local Government Area as the convoy was travelling to Otukpo in Benue State for the late officer’s burial. The gunmen reportedly intercepted the convoy, abducted nine mourners, and drove away with the vehicle conveying the deceased’s remains.

The corpse was later abandoned near Ejule community, where it was recovered and handed over to the bereaved family, who proceeded with the burial as scheduled on Saturday.

The Kogi State Sector Commander of the FRSC, Lawal Fagge, confirmed the incident. Family members said the kidnappers have contacted them and are demanding a ₦450 million ransom for the release of the abducted victims.

Security agencies have launched efforts to rescue the victims and apprehend those responsible for the attack. Visit www.jocomms.com for more news.