Three persons have been killed in a kidnap incident in Okuta community of Baruten Local Government Area of Kwara State.
They include the kidnap victim, a vigilante and the suspected kidnapper, who reportedly died in a gun battle with vigilantes, according to a community leader who confirmed the incident.
Reports reaching DAILY POST in Ilorin, indicated that “the deadly attack took place on Sunday night, June 22, 2025, around 10:00 pm, when a group of heavily armed men stormed the residence of Alhaji Dauda Ismaila.”
Eyewitnesses said the gunmen who fired several shots into the air, created panic, drawing the attention of neighbours and passersby, eventually. They then successfully kidnapped Alhaji Dauda and fled into the surrounding bushes.
“In response, the 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 of the kidnappers was shot and killed. Sadly, Alhaji Dauda also lost his life in the crossfire, while a member of the vigilante group, who was part of the rescue effort, was also killed in the operation,” sources in the community disclosed.
Security sources confirmed that “based on the physical appearance of the kidnapper who was killed, he is suspected to be of Fulani origin, just as the task force has continued to pursue the remaining kidnappers,” assuring the public that no effort will be spared in bringing them to justice.
Alhaji Dauda Ismaila was a well-known multi-businessman and farmer who contributed greatly 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.
The latest bloody incident has added to a growing list of kidnapping cases in the area. On May 31st, 2025, just three weeks ago, another victim was kidnapped in Shiya community, a town in Okuta district. The victim was only released after paying a huge 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 died from his injuries.
Residents of Okuta say the kidnappings have become a troubling routine, with incidents happening roughly every three weeks to one month. The ongoing threat has left many families in fear, and there are growing calls for government intervention.
Community leaders are urging both state and federal authorities to strengthen security in the area and put an end to the disturbing trend, as the people of Okuta remain in mourning, hoping for peace and justice.
