The Department of State Services (DSS) has issued a security alert over an alleged plan by suspected bandits to escalate the kidnapping of farmers in parts of Kwara State, raising fresh concerns about safety in rural communities.
According to intelligence reports, the attacks are reportedly being coordinated by two identified bandit leaders, Auta-Ilorin and Siddi Dan-Kano. The planned operations are said to target farming settlements around Lema, Ndeji, and Gbugbu communities in Edu Local Government Area.
The warning was contained in an official communication addressed to the police command in Ilorin, urging immediate action to prevent the attacks and protect vulnerable communities.
Security sources indicated that the planned kidnappings may be retaliatory, following recent military operations that have disrupted criminal activities in the region. Authorities fear the situation could force farmers to abandon their lands, further affecting agricultural output and livelihoods.
The DSS advised that security presence be intensified in the affected areas to deter potential attacks and maintain public safety.
Kwara has witnessed a rise in insecurity in recent times, particularly in its northern districts such as Kaiama and Baruten, where banditry and violent incidents have become more frequent, even as Ilorin, the state capital, remains relatively calm.
