Bandits Abduct 10 In Kwara, Ondo

Bandits have abducted four members of the same family at a cashew farm in Babanla community, Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State.

The victims were reportedly harvesting cashew nuts in the early hours of Wednesday when armed men invaded the farm.

A prince of the Seriki of Babanla, who spoke on condition of anonymity, identified the abducted persons as DJ Ratio, Ayinla Wasiu, Ayinla Rasheed and Alabi Samad.

He said security operatives, including soldiers, forest guards, local hunters and vigilantes, launched a search operation shortly after the attack, but the victims’ whereabouts were still unknown as of press time.

Chairman of Ifelodun Local Government, Femi Yusuf, confirmed the incident in a telephone interview, expressing concern that residents continue to visit farms at dawn despite prevailing security risks.

A female resident disclosed that five persons were initially seized, but an elderly man was later released, while the four others were taken to an unknown destination.

Meanwhile, the Ondo State Police Command confirmed the abduction of six worshippers at a Celestial Church along the Uso/Owo Expressway in Owo Local Government Area.

The command’s spokesperson, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, said the attack occurred around 12:50am on February 25. He said security operatives, in collaboration with the Nigerian Army and vigilantes, launched rescue operations.

One victim has been rescued, while a suspected informant has been arrested. Efforts are ongoing to secure the release of the remaining victims and apprehend the perpetrators. (Daily trust)