Bandits invade Kwara community, burn Emir’s palace, abduct residents

Suspected bandits have attacked Yashikira community in Baruten LGA of Kwara state, setting the Emir’s palace ablaze and abducting several residents, including women and children.

The attack reportedly occurred late Sunday night when heavily armed assailants stormed the border community, firing sporadically and causing panic among residents.

Sources said the gunmen invaded the palace during the assault, burning parts of the royal residence before whisking away multiple victims to an unknown destination.

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

Local sources described the incident as terrifying, saying villagers were caught unawares as the assailants struck under the cover of darkness.

Security operatives have since launched rescue operations following the abduction.

Military and police personnel were said to have established a security cordon around the area in efforts to rescue about 10 persons reportedly kidnapped during the overnight attack.

The attackers also allegedly attempted to raid nearby police stations but were repelled by security forces.

The Kwara state police command had yet to issue an official statement on the incident as of press time.

The latest attack comes barely 24 hours after gunmen invaded a prayer ground at Ori-Oke Ajaiye in Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State, where three worshippers were killed and 15 others abducted during a night vigil.