Kwara Police Launch Massive Rescue Operation as Gunmen Kill 3 Worshippers, Abduct 15

The Kwara State Police Command has launched a full-scale tactical and intelligence-driven rescue operation following a deadly attack on worshippers at a prayer ground in Ekiti Local Government Area.

According to a statement issued on Sunday by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, armed hoodlums invaded the Ori-Oke Ajaiye prayer ground located on the outskirts of Ikiran Village on Friday night, killing three worshippers and abducting 15 others.

The incident was reported by Pastor Adebayo Abiodun of Ijo Ajaye Ati Igbala, Ekerin Village, who disclosed that the attackers stormed the venue during a night vigil at about 8:30 p.m., firing sporadically before whisking away several congregants to an unknown destination.

Following the distress call, the Divisional Police Officer in charge of Ekiti Division swiftly mobilised operatives to the scene, while the Commissioner of Police, Ojo Adekimi, immediately ordered a coordinated rescue mission involving the Police Drone Team, Police Mobile Force personnel, intelligence units, and other tactical assets of the Command.

The police commissioner described the attack as “barbaric, callous and unacceptable,” assuring families of the victims and residents of the state that the Command remains fully committed to rescuing all abducted persons and bringing the perpetrators to justice.

The Command disclosed that extensive bush-combing operations, intelligence gathering, and coordinated security surveillance are currently ongoing across affected areas as operatives intensify efforts to track down the assailants.

Residents of Ekiti Local Government Area and adjoining communities were urged to remain calm, vigilant, and cooperate with security agencies by providing timely and credible information that could aid the rescue operation.

The police further assured the public that updates would be provided as investigations and rescue efforts progress.