Bandits Invade Kwara Community, Abduct Residents, Set Emir’s Palace Ablaze

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

According to local sources, the heavily armed attackers stormed the border community late Sunday night, firing sporadically and causing panic among residents.

Witnesses said the gunmen attacked the palace of the Emir of Yashikira during the invasion, setting sections of the royal residence ablaze before abducting several persons, including women and children.

Residents disclosed that the attackers operated for hours without resistance, leaving behind widespread fear and destruction in the community.

A local source described the incident as terrifying, noting that villagers were caught unawares as the assailants invaded the town under the cover of darkness.

Security sources said military and police operatives have since launched rescue operations aimed at securing the release of the abducted victims.

The security agencies were also said to have established a cordon around the area as part of ongoing efforts to track the attackers and restore calm to the community.

Reports indicated that about 10 persons were taken away during the attack on the Emir’s palace.

The attackers were also said to have attempted to raid nearby police stations but were reportedly repelled by security operatives.

As of the time of filing this report, the Nigeria Police Force had yet to issue an official statement on the incident.

The latest attack comes barely 24 hours after suspected bandits reportedly invaded a prayer ground at Ori-Oke Ajaiye, on the outskirts of Ikiran village in Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State, where three worshippers were killed and 15 others abducted during a vigil.