Suspected bandits launched a coordinated assault on Yashikira in Baruten Local Government Area of Kwara State around 2:00am on Monday. They struck the police divisional headquarters and the Emir's palace simultaneously, partially burning the royal residence.
Witnesses reported heavy gunfire as the attackers moved through the community in large numbers. Residents fled into nearby bushes as sporadic shooting continued for several minutes.
About ten persons were abducted during the raid and taken to an unknown location. Local authorities confirmed that women and children were among those seized.
The Emir managed to escape unharmed despite the brazen nature of the attack. Confusion initially gripped the palace as the invasion unfolded.
Baruten local government chairman Issa Jubril confirmed the monarch's safety in a statement. "The Emir was able to escape during the incident," he noted.
Pressed on details about the abducted women and children, Jubril declined to provide specifics. He said exact figures and identities of victims were still being compiled.
According to him, security agencies were alerted immediately after the attack. "The town is calm now.
We've contacted the relevant authorities and they're handling this," Jubril added.
Baruten LGA sits along border areas long plagued by armed gangs exploiting difficult terrain. The region's proximity to inter-state routes makes it vulnerable to such incursions.
Kwara State Police Command confirmed the incident involved suspected bandits operating in coordinated fashion. SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, the police spokesperson, released the statement on behalf of Commissioner Ojo Adekimi.
Adekimi has ordered a full-scale intelligence-driven operation to rescue the captives. Police tactical units will work alongside the military, forest guards, and vigilante groups in the effort.
Security deployment across vulnerable communities in the state has been reinforced. Officers are conducting surveillance and bush-combing operations to prevent further attacks.
The ongoing operations aim to track down the attackers and secure the safe return of abducted victims. Police assured residents that efforts to restore security remain ongoing.
