Bandits have reportedly invaded Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) in Omugo community, Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara state, abducting some of the worshippers.
The Joint security operatives in the area, were however, said to have rescued three of the abducted victims.
The attack reportedly occurred on Sunday morning during church service, causing panic among worshippers and residents.
According to reports by The Punch, the assailants stormed the church premises and abducted several people before security forces intervened.
The report quoted a source from the Kwara South Joint Security Watch, who spoke on condition of anonymity, saying “At least seven people were abducted.”
Confirming the development the Kwara state Commissioner for Communications, Bolanle Olukoju, said security operatives successfully rescued three victims while efforts were ongoing to secure the release of the remaining abductees.
“We commend the immediate and coordinated response of the security forces, forest guards, and local vigilantes, which led to the rescue of three of the abducted victims and helped to repel the attackers”, the commissioner said.
Olukoju added that the government had directed security agencies to intensify efforts to apprehend the perpetrators and ensure the safe return of the remaining victims.
“While commending the immediate response of the security forces and other stakeholders, we task them to ensure that the ongoing manhunt leads to the rescue of the remaining victims and the arrest of the perpetrators,” she said.
The commissioner also condemned the targeting of a religious centre, describing the act as cowardly and unacceptable.
“The Kwara State Government strongly condemns the cowardly targeting of a place of worship under any guise, and we reaffirm that such acts of violence have no place in our communities,” she added.
She further urged residents to support ongoing security efforts by remaining vigilant and cooperating with authorities.
Bandits attack Kwara church, abduct worshippers
