KEY POINTS

• Suspected bandits attacked Yashikira community in Kwara, abducting residents and burning parts of the Emir’s palace.
• Women and children were among those kidnapped, while security forces launched rescue operations.
• The attack followed another deadly bandit invasion at a prayer ground in Kwara where three people were killed.

Suspected bandits have attacked Yashikira community in Baruten Local Government Area of Kwara State, abducting several residents and setting parts of the Emir’s palace on fire.

The attackers reportedly stormed the community late Sunday night, shooting sporadically and causing panic among residents. Witnesses said the gunmen operated for hours, leaving destruction and fear in their wake.

Local sources disclosed that multiple residents, including women and children, were whisked away during the attack. About 10 persons are believed to have been abducted from the community.

The bandits also attempted to attack nearby police stations but were reportedly repelled by security personnel.

Security Forces Launch Rescue Operation

Following the invasion, military and police operatives launched rescue operations and placed the area under security watch in a bid to rescue the kidnapped victims.

Authorities have yet to release an official statement regarding the incident.

The latest attack comes barely a day after armed bandits invaded a prayer ground at Ori-Oke Ajaiye near Ikiran village in Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State, where three worshippers were killed and 15 others abducted during a vigil.