Worshippers Abducted by Gunmen During Church Service in Kwara

Armed assailants launched an attack on a church service on Sunday in the Ifelodun local government area of Kwara State.

The incident took place at the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) in the Omugo community, where a congregation was attending their regular Sunday worship.

Witnesses reported that the gunmen entered the church premises and began firing indiscriminately, causing panic and prompting worshippers to scatter in various directions.

During the chaos, it was reported that eight individuals from the congregation were kidnapped by the attackers.

In an unexpected turn of events, three of those abducted managed to escape from their captors, while five others remain unaccounted for.

This assault follows a similar incident just a few months prior when bandits invaded a CAC church in the Eruku area of Ekiti Local Government, also during a service, before the victims were later rescued.

The Kwara State Government has confirmed the attack, labeling it as alarming and condemning the assault on a place of worship.

In a statement released on Sunday, Commissioner for Communications Bolanle Olukoju expressed commendation for the quick response of security forces and local emergency groups who intervened promptly.

The statement recognized the contributions of security personnel, forest guards, and community vigilantes, particularly for their efforts which facilitated the escape of three abductees.

While denouncing the act, the government urged all security services to bolster their efforts in rescuing the remaining victims and apprehending the perpetrators.

Additionally, the government called for enhanced cooperation among security agencies, community members, and local vigilante groups to address the rising insecurity in the region.

It further stated that ongoing operations, including forest search missions, are showing progress in mitigating the activities of criminal elements in affected communities.

Reassuring the public, the government reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and properties while pledging continuous support for security initiatives throughout the state.