Nine abducted persons have been rescued during a joint security operation in Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State.
The operation was carried out by Kwara State Forest Guards alongside operatives of the Department of State Services, local hunters and vigilantes across the Obbo-Aiyegunle, Ejiu-Ora and Osi axis bordering Ekiti and Niger states.
According to security sources, the victims were abducted from Eju community and were being moved through the bush towards Niger State when security personnel intercepted the group.
During the operation, security forces killed three suspected bandits and rescued all nine victims. One of the rescued persons is receiving treatment for injuries.
A member of the Kwara Forest Guards, Owolabi Adebayo, said the security team was conducting an intelligence-led bush-combing operation when it encountered the suspected bandits.
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Several motorcycles allegedly belonging to the suspects were also recovered during the operation.
The Chief Security Officer of Ekiti Local Government Area, Agbemuko Gabriel, commended the security personnel for their efforts in tackling kidnapping and other criminal activities in the area.
The operation comes as authorities intensify efforts to address insecurity in Kwara South and neighbouring border communities.
A new Army battalion has also been approved for Umaro in Kwara South, while security agencies say joint patrols and bush-combing operations will continue to protect residents and farming communities.
