By Ademola Adekusibe
15th December 2025
Suspected bandits have launched fresh attacks on rural communities in Kwara State, abducting no fewer than eight residents in coordinated raids that have heightened fear and outrage across the state.
The first attack occurred early Monday morning around 6:30am at Gaa Jimoh community in Ijara Isin, Isin Local Government Area, where heavily armed men reportedly invaded the area in large numbers. Residents said the gunmen operated freely for several minutes without resistance, whisking away five people before fleeing.
Those abducted were identified as Adebayo Saheed, Adebayo Fatimah, Adebayo Salamat, Ibrahim Mohammed, and Ibrahim Yusuf. Witnesses said the attackers struck at a time when residents were preparing to begin their day, leaving the community helpless.
In a related incident last Friday evening around 7:30pm, another group of kidnappers stormed Gaa Power Line area of Omu-Aran. The assailants reportedly fired sporadically to scare residents before abducting three people: Mrs. Fatimah, who was carrying her two-month-old baby, Adama Musa, and Umaru Sanda. Mrs. Fatimah and her infant were later released, while the two other victims were taken away.
Following the twin attacks, police operatives in Omu-Aran, working alongside local vigilante groups, have launched a manhunt for the perpetrators.
The latest abductions come amid mounting public anger over a viral video showing suspected bandits in possession of AK-47 rifles and a security vehicle bearing the logo of Ifelodun Local Government Area. In the footage, the suspects claimed the vehicle was supplied by the “Ilorin government” and alleged their weapons came “from Abuja,” sparking widespread accusations of official complicity.
Although the Kwara State Government has denied any involvement, insisting the suspects were arrested in Auchi, Edo State, and that the vehicle was originally assigned to vigilantes, residents say the explanations have done little to calm public suspicion.
As insecurity deepens, communities across Kwara are demanding urgent and transparent action to stop the escalating wave of banditry and restore confidence in local security arrangements.
