It was gathered that joint security operatives later rescued three of the victims, while efforts continue to secure the release of others still in captivity.<\/p>\n
The incident occurred during a Sunday morning service, throwing the church and surrounding community into panic.<\/p>\n
A source said that the attackers invaded the church premises and took away a number of worshippers before security personnel intervened.<\/p>\n
Another source from the Kwara South Joint Security Watch, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said, \u201cAt least seven people were abducted,\u201d though further details were not provided.<\/p>\n
Confirming the attack, the state Commissioner for Communications, Bolanle Olukoju, disclosed that three victims had been rescued, while operations were ongoing to free the remaining abductees.<\/p>\n
She stated, \u201cWe commend the immediate and coordinated response of the security forces, forest guards, and local vigilantes, which led to the rescue of three of the abducted victims and helped to repel the attackers.\u201d<\/p>\n
Olukoju added that the government had instructed security agencies to intensify efforts to apprehend those responsible and ensure the safe return of the remaining victims.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhile commending the immediate response of the security forces and other stakeholders, we task them to ensure that the ongoing manhunt leads to the rescue of the remaining victims and the arrest of the perpetrators,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
The commissioner condemned the attack on the place of worship, describing it as unacceptable and cowardly.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe Kwara State Government strongly condemns the cowardly targeting of a place of worship under any guise, and we reaffirm that such acts of violence have no place in our communities,\u201d she added.<\/p>\n
She also called on residents to remain alert and support security agencies by providing useful information.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe call on community members to continue to work closely with security agencies, forest guards, and local vigilantes to bring an end to this menace and safeguard our communities,\u201d the statement noted.<\/p>\n
Olukoju further noted that ongoing forest combing operations had recorded significant progress.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe also commend the appreciable progress made in the ongoing combing of the forests, which has significantly curtailed the activities of criminal elements across affected areas,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
The state government reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property, assuring residents of continued collaboration with security stakeholders.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"