Gunmen Storm Kwara Church, Abduct Worshippers as Security Forces Rescue Three

Armed bandits on Sunday March 22, invaded a worship service at an ECWA church in Omugo Community, Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, abducting several congregants and triggering widespread panic.

Global Mirror News gathered that the attackers struck during the morning service, disrupting proceedings and forcibly taking an unspecified number of worshippers into the surrounding area.

However, a swift response by joint security operatives led to the rescue of three victims, while efforts intensified to secure the release of others still in captivity.

A local security source, speaking under anonymity, disclosed that at least seven persons were initially abducted before intervention efforts began.

Confirming the incident, the Kwara State Commissioner for Communications, Bolanle Olukoju, commended the coordinated response of security agencies, forest guards, and vigilante groups.

“We commend the immediate and coordinated response of the security forces, forest guards, and local vigilantes, which led to the rescue of three victims and helped repel the attackers,” she said.

Olukoju further revealed that authorities had launched a manhunt to apprehend the perpetrators and ensure the safe return of the remaining abductees.

The State Government strongly condemned the attack, describing the targeting of a religious centre as both cowardly and unacceptable.

“This act of violence against a place of worship has no place in our communities,” the commissioner stated, urging residents to remain vigilant and support ongoing security operations.

She noted that intensified forest combing operations across affected areas have already begun yielding results, significantly disrupting criminal activities.

Global Mirror News understands that security concerns have recently escalated in Kwara South following intelligence reports of planned coordinated attacks in Ifelodun, Irepodun, and Isin local government areas.

Local security groups had earlier warned residents of potential threats, prompting increased deployment of military and paramilitary personnel, alongside aerial surveillance, to forestall further incidents.

Authorities have reassured residents of their commitment to safeguarding lives and property, calling for sustained cooperation between communities and security agencies.