Kwara traditional ruler, six others escape from bandits after vigilante raid

Kamilu Salami, the Ojibara of Bayagan in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, along with six other abductees, has miraculously escaped from the grip of bandits.

The bandits had reportedly stormed the traditional ruler’s farm on Saturday, armed with AK-47 rifles, and demanded a ransom of N150 million from the community for his release.

During the abduction, the monarch was forced to speak with members of his community to prove he was in the kidnappers’ custody, urging them to negotiate for his freedom.

According to local sources, the escape occurred after a coordinated attack by vigilante groups who flooded the forested areas where the bandits were holding their captives.

The confrontation took place around the Eku Idaji area near Igbaja, resulting in a fierce battle that ultimately allowed the traditional ruler and the others to flee.

“Although the Baale and the six other escapees have not yet returned to the community, they have made contact with members, confirming their escape,” a source said.

Read also: Again, bandits abduct 11 in fresh attack on Kwara community

The monarch revealed that he and the other captives were transported on motorcycles through dense forest for over five hours before arriving at the bandits’ hideout, where they were able to communicate with the community.

He also indicated that an unspecified number of people were abducted from neighboring communities during the same period.

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