Bandits have attacked Yashikira community in Baruten Local Government Area of Kwara State, abducting 10 residents and setting part of the Emir’s palace ablaze.
According to reports, the assault occurred on Sunday night, with the attackers targeting both the palace of the Emir of Yashikira and nearby police stations. Residents said security operatives successfully repelled the assailants before they could fully carry out their plans.
A senior security official confirmed the incident, noting that immediate rescue operations had been launched. He said military and police personnel had cordoned off the area and were working to secure the release of the abducted victims.
“The attackers also attempted to raid local police stations but were repelled,” the official added.
The Kwara State Police Command also confirmed the attack, condemning it in strong terms. In a statement signed by its spokesperson, Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, the command described the incident as a “cowardly and audacious” act carried out in the early hours of May 25, 2026.
The statement revealed that the armed assailants launched a coordinated attack around 2:00 a.m., striking both the Yashikira Police Divisional Headquarters and the Emir’s palace. While part of the palace was burnt and 10 persons abducted, police officers on duty successfully repelled the attack on the station.
Following the incident, the Commissioner of Police, CP Ojo Adekimi, ordered a full-scale, intelligence-led operation involving the police, military, forest guards, vigilantes, and other security agencies to comb surrounding forests and criminal hideouts in search of the victims and perpetrators.
The command assured residents that it remains resolute and fully prepared to confront criminal elements across the state.
“These criminals have declared war on peace-loving citizens, and we are determined to hunt them down, dismantle their networks, rescue all abducted victims, and ensure they face the full weight of the law,” the statement said.
Security operations have since been intensified across vulnerable areas, with increased surveillance, intelligence gathering, and ongoing bush-combing efforts.