By our reporter 25.5.2026
Armed gangs popularly known as bandits in the on Sunday invaded Yashikira in the Baruten Local government area of Kwara State and unleashed mayhem in the quiet town.
According to the Kwara State Police Command spokesperson, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi the coordinated attack which occurred at about 2.00am, saw the bandits invade the divisional police headquarters in Yashikira and setting the Emir’s palace on fire.
The Emir’s wives and several others including women and children were taken away by the bandits.
Kwara Commissioner of Police, CP Ojo Adekimi, said in statement that a full-scale security operation involving security agencies, forest guards and vigilantes to rescue the victims and track down the perpetrators is ongoing.
“These criminals have declared war against peace-loving citizens, and we are fully prepared to hunt them down relentlessly,” CP Adekimi said.
According to a member of the community the bandits overpowered local vigilantes and operated for hours without resistance as terrified residents fled into nearby bushes for safety.
“The suspected bandits invaded Yashikira in the night.
“They set the palace on fire and kidnapped women and children, including the emir’s wives.”
Earlier on Saturday bandits killed three people and abducted 15 others as they worship in a Church at Ori-Oke Ajaiye, in the outskirts of Ikiran village of Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State.
The attack occurred while the worshippers were observing night vigil at about 20:30 pm.