The number of people confirmed to have been abducted by bandits in Kujama, headquarters of Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State, has risen to 12.

A body believed to be one of the kidnapped victims was found along the escape route used by the attackers.

A trader in the Kujama Market, who also resides in the town, confirmed the development, saying the actual number of abducted persons could be higher, but 12 have so far been confirmed missing.

According to the trader, in addition to abducting a medical doctor, a security guard, and several patients from a private hospital, the gunmen also broke into nearby homes and took away residents.

He added that five more locals, including three housewives, a young girl, and an adult male, remain unaccounted for.

It was further learned that a security officer attached to the Nigeria Correctional Service, who was shot during the attack, sustained severe injuries after refusing to go with the kidnappers.

The officer was reportedly shot in both legs and left behind in critical condition.

As of the time of filing this report, families of the victims were seen waiting anxiously around the hospital, hoping to receive a call from the abductors.

Earlier on Tuesday, SaharaReporters reported that a large group of bandits stormed a hospital in Kaduna State in the early hours of the day, abducting several patients along with the medical doctor on duty.

According to a source in Kaduna, the bandits went straight to the private hospital.

The hospital, named Nasara Nursing and Maternity Home, and other houses were attacked.

At the hospital, the assailants abducted five patients, the medical doctor on duty, and a security guard.