Forest Guards, DSS Rescue Nine Kidnap Victims, Kill Three Bandits in Kwara

A joint security operation involving Kwara State Forest Guards, operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS), local hunters, and vigilantes has rescued nine kidnapped victims and killed three suspected bandits in Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State.

The operation took place in the Obbo-Aiyegunle, Ejiu-Ora, and Osi communities along the Kwara-Ekiti-Kogi border following intelligence reports on the movement of kidnapped victims through forest routes.

According to local authorities, the victims were abducted after a market day in Eju community and were being taken toward Niger State when the joint security team intercepted the kidnappers.

One of the rescued victims, Umaru Muazu, said he and his son were seized at gunpoint by the attackers, while another victim, Ibrahim Danga, confirmed they were held briefly before security operatives arrived and secured their release.

A member of the Kwara Forest Guards, Owolabi Adebayo, said the rescue followed an intelligence-led bush-combing operation that resulted in a fierce gun battle.

> "We neutralised three of the bandits and rescued nine kidnapped victims. One of the victims is currently receiving medical treatment for injuries sustained during the incident," he said.

Adebayo, however, called for better logistics and modern equipment, including body armour, night-vision goggles, binoculars, walkie-talkies, and additional ammunition, to strengthen the fight against armed criminal groups operating in the forests.

The Chief Security Officer of Ekiti Local Government Area, Agbemuko Gabriel, praised the forest guards for their role in the operation, describing their efforts as crucial to improving security in the area.

Security officials also displayed motorcycles allegedly recovered from the suspected bandits during the operation.

The successful rescue comes as security agencies intensify joint patrols and bush-combing exercises across southern Kwara to tackle kidnapping and banditry. It also follows President Bola Tinubu's approval for the establishment of a new Nigerian Army battalion in Omu-Aran to strengthen security operations across the state.

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