Three persons have been killed in a kidnap incident in Okuta community of Baruten Local Government Area of Kwara State. The deceased include the kidnap victim, a vigilante member, and the suspected kidnapper who died during a gun battle with local security operatives.
According to reports, the deadly attack occurred on Sunday night, June 22, 2025, around 10:00 pm, when heavily armed men stormed the residence of Alhaji Dauda Ismaila, a prominent businessman and farmer in the community.
Eyewitnesses revealed that the gunmen fired several shots into the air, creating panic among residents before successfully abducting Alhaji Dauda and fleeing into nearby bushes.
Deadly Rescue Attempt
Local vigilantes immediately launched a pursuit operation and caught up with the kidnappers in the forest, leading to a fierce gun battle. During the exchange of gunfire, one kidnapper was shot and killed. Tragically, Alhaji Dauda also lost his life in the crossfire, along with a member of the vigilante group who participated in the rescue effort.
Security sources confirmed that based on physical appearance, the slain kidnapper is suspected to be of Fulani origin. The security task force has continued to pursue the remaining kidnappers, assuring the public that efforts to bring them to justice will not be spared.
Pattern of Kidnappings in the Area
The latest incident adds to a growing list of kidnapping cases in the area. On May 31st, 2025, just three weeks prior, another victim was kidnapped in Shiya community, a town in Okuta district. That victim was only released after paying a substantial ransom.
Earlier this year, on February 14th, 2025, suspected kidnappers attempted to abduct Alhaji Fatai Olowogbo. Though the kidnapping was unsuccessful, he was shot during the attack and later succumbed to his injuries.
Residents of Okuta have expressed concern that kidnappings have become alarmingly frequent, with incidents occurring approximately every three to four weeks. The ongoing threat has created an atmosphere of fear among families in the area.
Community Calls for Government Intervention
Community leaders are urgently calling on both state and federal authorities to strengthen security measures in the area and put an end to this disturbing trend. The people of Okuta remain in mourning, hoping for peace and justice as they grapple with the loss of respected community members.
Alhaji Dauda Ismaila was described as a well-known multi-businessman and farmer who contributed significantly to the local economy. His death is considered a great loss to the Okuta community, where he was respected for his hard work and generosity.
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