Suspected bandits have abducted a traditional ruler, his wife, and one other resident during a midnight attack on Olayinka community in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State.

The attackers reportedly stormed the palace of Oba Salman Aweda around 1:40 a.m. on Saturday, shooting sporadically to scare residents before whisking the monarch and two others away to an unknown destination.

The incident has thrown the community into panic, especially as the monarch was recently elevated and formally installed by the state government.

A local source confirmed the attack, saying, “Yes, it happened in Olayinka around 1 a.m. His wife and one other person were also taken. The monarch is one of the recently graded traditional rulers.”

Another resident, who spoke in fear of reprisals, described the invasion as terrifying, noting that there was no resistance during the operation.

“The bandits came heavily armed around 1:40 a.m. and took the monarch away. Everybody was scared, so nobody could do anything,” the resident said.

Confirming the incident, the Chairman of Ifelodun Local Government Area, Abdulrasheed Yusuf, described it as deeply disturbing and assured that efforts were underway to secure the victims’ release.

“We are deeply concerned about this incident and are taking swift and decisive action in collaboration with security agencies,” Yusuf said during a visit to the community on Saturday.

He said a joint search-and-rescue operation involving security operatives, forest guards, and local vigilantes had been launched across surrounding forests and neighbouring communities.

“The operation is aimed at ensuring the safe rescue of the abducted monarch,” he added.

Yusuf also appealed for calm and urged residents to provide useful intelligence to aid ongoing security operations.

“Community cooperation remains critical in addressing security challenges and restoring peace,” he said.

The abduction has heightened fears of renewed bandit activity in Kwara South, with residents calling for a stronger security presence to prevent further attacks. (The PUNCH)