Nine-month-old baby and six others freed as security forces clash with bandits in Kwara

‎‎Security personnel engaged in a firefight with armed kidnappers in a forest near Owa-Onire, Ifelodun LGA, Kwara state, rescuing seven abducted individuals, including an infant. The operation took place on Wednesday and involved collaboration between national security officers, police, and local vigilantes.
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‎The combined task force launched a targeted search-and-rescue mission after a wave of recent kidnappings within the community. Upon reaching the bandits’ hideout, they encountered heavy resistance, resulting in an intense exchange of gunfire. The confrontation forced the criminals to flee deeper into the forest, abandoning their captives.
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‎Among the rescued were Adam Khadijat, Mamud Miriam, Mumini Ahmed, Hamadu Haruna, Afusatu Ladan and her nine-month-old son, Usman Ladan, as well as Abibat Umaru. Following their liberation, the victims were immediately reunited with their loved ones.
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‎Police spokesperson SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi confirmed the engagement on Thursday. She reported that a vigilante sustained a gunshot wound during the clash and is currently recovering under medical care. Authorities also recovered three motorcycles and nine empty AK-47 magazines from the militants’ camp.
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‎Commissioner of Police Adekimi Ojo commended the courage and determination displayed by the security team. He pledged support for the collaboration with other agencies to sustain pressure on criminal hideouts until perpetrators of kidnapping and banditry face justice.
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‎Ojo further encouraged residents to remain calm, stay alert, and continue sharing timely and trustworthy intelligence to help the fight against crime across the state.
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