Barely days after attacks on churches in Kajuru, bandits have again struck in Southern Kaduna, abducting four persons from the residence of a retired senior police officer in Kujama, Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
According to credible security sources, the attack occurred at about 12:30 a.m. on January 18, when armed bandits stormed the home of Mr. Elisha Markus, a 60-year-old retired Superintendent of Police. Mr. Markus previously served as a divisional head in Lafia, Nasarawa State, before retiring from active service.
The attackers reportedly abducted Alice Jeshua (26), David Jeshua (6), Josephine Luka (15), and Samaria Mika (29), all residents of the same household. The victims were taken to an unknown destination, leaving the family and community in shock and distress.
Following the incident, security operatives and other relevant agencies were immediately mobilised to the area. Surrounding bushes were cordoned off in an effort to block escape routes commonly used by bandits operating within the Kajuru axis.
A security source confirmed that search-and-rescue efforts have been intensified, with authorities working in collaboration with local stakeholders to locate the abducted victims and apprehend those responsible.
Residents of Kujama say the abduction is another painful reminder that no one is spared—not even the homes of retired security personnel—from the growing wave of banditry in Southern Kaduna. The continued targeting of families in night raids has deepened fear and eroded confidence in safety, particularly in rural and semi-urban communities.
Southern Kaduna Voices reiterates the urgent need for proactive, intelligence-led security operations, improved protection for vulnerable communities, and sustained action to dismantle bandit networks operating across Kajuru and neighbouring areas.
As families endure another night of uncertainty, the people of Southern Kaduna once again call for decisive action—not promises—to bring lasting security and justice to the region.
