Suspected Terrorists have abducted a medical doctor, Abu Ibrahim Babatunde, and his brother, Abu Tahir, in Auchi, the administrative headquarters of Etsako West Local Government Area, Edo State.
According to reports, the duo were kidnapped on Thursday, January 1, 2026, at their residence along City Pride Road, Ibira Camp area, at around 7:30 pm.
Dr. Babatunde is currently undergoing housemanship at the Edo State Teaching Hospital, Auchi.
Sources revealed that the victims were seized at gunpoint in front of their home while returning from work.
The junior brother, Tahir, had stepped out of their vehicle to open the gate when the terrorists, reportedly lying in wait, emerged and abducted both brothers, whisking them into the nearby bush.
The Edo State Police Command has confirmed the incident, stating that operatives have been deployed to the scene. ASP Eno Ikoedem, the Command’s Public Relations Officer, said the command received a distress call at about 8:30 pm on January 2, 2026, reporting the abduction.
“Operatives were immediately deployed, and a coordinated manhunt has been launched involving the police, local vigilantes, forest guards, and Community Safety Partnership volunteers familiar with the terrain,” she said.
She added, “Aggressive search-and-rescue operations have been ongoing in the surrounding forest, with efforts focused on rescuing the victims and apprehending the terrorists.
“The command will leave no stone unturned to ensure their safe recovery.”
Residents of Auchi have condemned the abduction, describing it as disturbing and unacceptable. They praised the young doctor as a calm, dedicated professional committed to saving lives, noting that his only “crime” was serving humanity.
The community has called on security agencies, the Edo State Government, and all relevant authorities to act swiftly for the safe and unconditional release of Dr. Babatunde and his brother.