Gunmen suspected to be bandits on Sunday abducted eight worshippers during a service at Evangelical Church Winning All in Omugo, Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State.
Sources said the attackers stormed the church, firing shots to disperse the congregation before whisking away the victims. Three of the abducted worshippers were later reported to have escaped from captivity.
The state government confirmed the incident, with Commissioner for Communications Bolanle Olukoju stating that security agencies had launched a manhunt for the perpetrators.
She commended the swift response of security operatives, forest guards, and local vigilantes, noting that their efforts led to the rescue of some victims and progress in ongoing operations.
Olukoju added that authorities were intensifying search efforts to secure the release of the remaining captives and bring those responsible to justice.
The attack comes amid heightened security concerns in the region. The Kwara South Joint Security Watch had earlier warned of potential attacks targeting parts of the state, including Ifelodun, Irepodun, and Isin local government areas.
Residents have been urged to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies as efforts continue to curb criminal activities in the area.
