In a brazen early morning assault, armed men suspected to be terrorists struck a major highway in Kwara State, kidnapping at least four individuals. The incident has sent shockwaves through the state, highlighting a worsening security situation.
Ambush on a Busy Highway
The attack occurred in the early hours of today, January 5, 2026, along the busy Isanlu–Isin–Omu Aran road. According to eyewitness reports, the gunmen laid an ambush for motorists, bringing traffic to a halt. They operated freely on the highway, forcing vehicles to stop before selecting their victims.
The assailants subsequently whisked away four passengers to an unknown location. The swift and coordinated nature of the attack left other travellers stranded and terrified.
Bandits Still Active, Police Yet to React
A source who spoke to Channels Television revealed a chilling detail: the danger is far from over. “Bandits are still heavily present in the area and are actively targeting travellers heading towards Ilorin,” the source stated. This suggests the attackers may still be in the vicinity, posing an ongoing threat to commuters.
As of the time of reporting, the Kwara State Police command has not officially confirmed this latest attack. The lack of immediate official statement has heightened anxiety among residents.
A Pattern of Rising Insecurity
This abduction is not an isolated event. Kwara State has witnessed a surge in insecurity in recent months, with multiple major kidnapping incidents recorded within a short timeframe. The frequency of these attacks points to a serious security challenge that is disrupting lives and economic activities in the state.
The repeated targeting of major roads indicates a boldness among criminal elements and raises urgent questions about the safety of interstate travel in the region.