The Kwara State Government has stepped up security measures across Kwara South Senatorial District amid ongoing efforts to contain banditry and secure the release of abducted residents in the area.
Communities including Adanla, Ikosin, Afin Isapa, Isanlu-Isin, and Owa-Onire have witnessed a series of abductions in recent weeks, prompting heightened security responses and renewed appeals for community cooperation. Some residents have reportedly fled their homes due to fear of further attacks.
Investigations revealed that several persons are currently being held by bandits operating within the region’s forests and border areas. Incidents include multiple abductions in Adanla on December 26, 2025, as well as cases reported in Isapa, Ikosin, Owa-Onire, and along the Isanlu-Isin highway. The abductors are said to have demanded large ransom payments, alongside food and drinks.
Of particular concern is the kidnapping of the Oniwo of Afin, Oba Olanipekun, and his son, a serving member of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC). The incident has drawn widespread attention following reported threats by the abductors to harm one of the captives if their demands are not met.
Security sources disclosed that the bandits are exploiting the area’s vast forests, hills, caves, and porous borders, making tracking and rescue operations challenging. There are also allegations that some locals may be aiding the criminals by supplying food, shelter, and intelligence, further complicating security efforts.
However, the state government and security agencies are said to be addressing this challenge. Credible sources confirmed that appeals have been made to communities to identify and report informants, while intelligence-led operations are being strengthened.
In response, the Kwara State Government has trained and deployed forest guards to work alongside federal security agencies. These guards are supporting joint patrols and combing forested areas believed to serve as hideouts for the bandits.
A security source revealed that although exact figures are unavailable, recent operations have led to the neutralisation of several bandits and the arrest of suspects accused of supplying arms, food, and logistics to criminal groups.
“The government, in collaboration with federal security agencies, has taken concrete steps to address the situation, including deploying forest guards and planning expanded joint patrols,” the source said. “The government has made it clear that it will not tolerate banditry and remains committed to restoring peace across the region.”
Stakeholders have also emphasised the importance of community engagement, urging residents to report suspicious activities and support security agencies with timely intelligence. Calls have been made for increased patrols, checkpoints in vulnerable areas, closer coordination with traditional and community leaders, and the use of both technology and human intelligence.
There have also been suggestions that Kara cattle markets, believed to be used by bandits for clandestine meetings and arms storage, should be temporarily shut as part of broader security measures.
Authorities say sustained collaboration between the government, security agencies, and local communities remains critical to ending the insecurity and restoring confidence among residents of Kwara South.
