…A local source said Security forces swiftly responded after gunmen invaded the church premises and abducted several members
KWARA, NIGERIA- The iNews Times | Joint security operatives on Sunday foiled a suspected bandit attack on an ECWA Church in Omugo community, Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, rescuing three abducted victims.
The assailants reportedly struck during a church service, causing panic among worshippers and residents.
A local source said Security forces swiftly responded after gunmen invaded the church premises and abducted several members, successfully containing the situation.
An anonymous source from the Kwara South Joint Security Watch disclosed that at least seven persons were taken during the attack.
Confirming the incident, the State Commissioner for Communications, Bolanle Olukoju, said three victims had been rescued, while efforts were ongoing to free the remaining captives.
She praised the prompt and coordinated response of operatives, forest guards, and local vigilantes, noting that their intervention helped repel the attackers and secure the release of some victims.
Olukoju added that authorities had directed operatives to intensify efforts to apprehend those responsible and ensure the safe return of the others.
She condemned the attack on a place of worship, describing it as cowardly and unacceptable, and reaffirmed the government’s stance against such acts of violence.
The commissioner also urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with operatives, forest guards, and local vigilantes to tackle insecurity.
She further noted that ongoing forest combing operations had recorded progress in reducing criminal activities in the area.
Reiterating its commitment to safeguarding lives and property, the state government assured residents of continued collaboration with security stakeholders.
Security concerns in the state have recently heightened following intelligence reports of planned coordinated attacks across parts of Kwara South.
The Kwara South Joint Security Watch had earlier warned of possible attacks targeting Ifelodun, Irepodun, and Isin local government areas.
Its Coordinator, Olaitan Oyin-Zubair, said intelligence indicated planned strikes on March 23 and March 28, 2026, adding that operatives had begun deploying military and paramilitary personnel, alongside aerial surveillance, to prevent the attacks.
