No fewer than 15 suspected bandits reportedly invaded the ancient town of Yashikira in Baruten Local Government Area of Kwara State, setting the emir’s palace ablaze and abducting the emir’s wife, children, several women, and other residents of the community.
According to eyewitnesses, the attack occurred in the early hours of Sunday, May 24, while residents were asleep.
The gunmen were said to have stormed the town, firing sporadically before attacking the palace and nearby homes. Sources said the assailants overpowered local vigilantes and operated for hours without resistance as terrified residents fled into nearby bushes for safety.
Eyewitnesses said the attackers first targeted the palace, where they reportedly set parts of the building on fire before whisking away multiple victims.
A resident said:
“The suspected bandits invaded Yashikira in the night. They set the palace on fire and kidnapped women and children, including the emir’s wives.”
Another source said the attack threw the entire community into confusion as families searched for missing relatives after the assailants left the area.
“The attackers came in large numbers with sophisticated weapons. People were running in different directions. Many residents escaped into the bush while the bandits carried away several persons,” the source said.
The attack comes barely 72 hours after assailants reportedly attacked a prayer house, killed three persons, and abducted several others.
