Security Operatives Repel Bandit Attack on Kwara Church, Rescue 3 Abducted Worshippers

Security Operatives Repel Bandit Attack on Kwara Church, Rescue 3 Abducted Worshippers

Joint security operatives have successfully repelled a suspected bandit attack on an ECWA Church in Omugo community, Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, rescuing three abducted worshippers in a coordinated operation that restored calm to the area.

The attack occurred on Sunday during a church service, when armed men stormed the premises, causing panic among congregants and residents. Eyewitnesses said the attackers operated briefly before security reinforcements arrived and engaged them.

A local source disclosed that the gunmen abducted several worshippers during the invasion before security operatives swiftly intervened to disrupt their operation. Another source linked to the Kwara South Joint Security Watch stated that at least seven persons were initially taken away by the attackers.

The swift response by combined teams of security agencies, including local vigilantes and forest guards, led to the rescue of three of the abducted victims, while efforts continue to secure the release of the remaining individuals and apprehend the perpetrators.

Confirming the incident, the Kwara State Commissioner for Communications, Bolanle Olukoju, commended the coordinated response of the security forces and community-based operatives, noting that their intervention helped repel the attackers and limit the scale of the incident.

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She explained that the government has intensified collaboration with security stakeholders to strengthen surveillance and response mechanisms across vulnerable communities, particularly in areas prone to kidnapping and banditry.

The state government also directed security agencies to launch a manhunt for the fleeing suspects, urging them to ensure the safe return of all abducted victims. Authorities have stepped up patrols and ongoing forest combing operations aimed at flushing out criminal elements believed to be operating within the surrounding areas.

Olukoju further condemned the attack on a place of worship, describing it as a “cowardly” act and reaffirming the government’s commitment to protecting religious institutions and citizens across the state.

Security concerns have been rising in parts of Kwara South in recent weeks following intelligence warnings about possible coordinated attacks in Ifelodun, Irepodun, and Isin local government areas. This prompted increased deployment of security personnel, including military and paramilitary operatives, alongside aerial surveillance to prevent further incidents.

Community-based security networks had earlier raised alerts over suspected movements of armed groups, urging residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with authorities. The latest incident appears to validate concerns about heightened threats in the region, even as security agencies continue to respond proactively.

The Kwara State Government reiterated its commitment to strengthening security operations, improving intelligence gathering, and enhancing collaboration with local communities to curb the activities of criminal groups.

Residents have been advised to remain calm, stay alert, and report any suspicious movements to relevant authorities as efforts continue to rescue the remaining victims and bring the attackers to justice.

Security Operatives Repel Bandit Attack on Kwara Church, Rescue 3 Abducted Worshippers