- Suspected bandits abducted six travellers along the Shagba–Babanla road in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State on Sunday evening
- Among those kidnapped was Sarafa Raheem, the Chief Imam of Babanla, alongside other travellers including Wasiu Wahabi and Abdulateef Meco
- The attack sparked fear among residents, who called on security agencies to strengthen patrols and secure the safe release of the victims
Suspected armed bandits on Sunday abducted six people along the Shagba–Babanla road under the Igbaja Division in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State.
According to security sources, the incident occurred at about 7:15pm while the victims were travelling from Oke-Ode to Babanla.
Those reportedly kidnapped include Wasiu Wahabi, Gani, Abdulateef Meco and Alhaji Sarafa Raheem, who serves as the Chief Imam of Babanla town. The identities of two other victims had not been confirmed as of the time of filing this report, although local sources suggested that a Bororo man is believed to be among those abducted.
Residents said the attack occurred in the evening when armed men suddenly appeared along the route and forcefully took the travellers away to an unknown destination. Witnesses reported that the gunmen operated for several minutes before fleeing the area with their captives.
The incident has triggered fear and tension across the Babanla community, with residents expressing concern over what they described as worsening insecurity in the area. Many community members said the attack has heightened anxiety among locals who regularly use the road linking nearby towns and villages.
Local sources stated that the assailants stormed parts of the community during the operation, creating panic as people rushed to safety. The victims were reportedly intercepted while travelling, after which they were forced into the surrounding bush by the attackers.
Community leaders and residents have called on security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the safe release of the abducted individuals and strengthen security presence in the area.
Some residents also appealed for increased patrols along rural roads, which they said have become vulnerable to criminal attacks, especially during evening hours.
As of the time of this report, authorities had yet to release an official statement regarding the incident. However, security sources indicated that efforts were ongoing to track down the perpetrators and locate the abducted victims.
Residents have meanwhile been urged to remain calm but vigilant, while cooperating with security agencies as investigations and search operations continue.