A violent kidnapping incident in Okuta, Baruten Local Government Area of Kwara State, has left three people dead, including a prominent businessman, a local vigilante, and one of the suspected kidnappers.
A source told newsmen that gunmen, suspected to be of Fulani origin, stormed the residence of Alhaji Dauda Ismaila—a respected businessman and farmer—around 10:00 p.m. on Sunday, June 22.
The source said that the attackers fired several rounds into the air to create panic before abducting Alhaji Dauda and fleeing into the surrounding forest.
According to the source, local vigilantes immediately launched a rescue mission, tracking the kidnappers deep into the bush.
However, a fierce gun battle ensued during the confrontation.
“One of the kidnappers was shot and killed, but tragically, Alhaji Dauda was caught in the crossfire and died at the scene. A vigilante officer involved in the rescue effort also lost his life,” the source said.
“The joint task force is continuing its manhunt for the remaining assailants, vowing to leave no stone unturned.”
This latest tragedy is part of a disturbing pattern. On May 31, a resident of the nearby Shiya community was abducted and only released after a ransom was paid.
In February, another kidnapping attempt left Alhaji Fatai Olowogbo dead from gunshot wounds.
Residents say kidnappings now occur every few weeks, and fear has become a part of daily life. Community leaders are urgently calling on the government to boost security and end the growing wave of violence.
Meanwhile, efforts to obtain a reaction from the Police Public Relations Officer of the Kwara State Police Command, Ejire Adetoun Adeyemi, were unsuccessful as of the time of filing this report.
