2 killed, 3 kidnapped as gunmen attack travelers in Kwara

Friday, August 8, 2025 - The Kwara State Police Command on Thursday confirmed the k!lling of two travellers and abduction of three others by unknown armed men in Ganmu village, Ifelodun Local Government Area of the state. 

It was gathered that the victims of the attack were travelling from Lagos to Babanla town in the local government when they experienced a flat tyre near Ganmu village last Friday. 

They were ambushed by five armed assailants while addressing the mechanical fault, leading to the tragic deaths of Alhaji Abdulrazak Ewenla, a native of Ajia village, and Jimoh Audu from Ganmu.

The attackers also abducted Kazeem Ajide, Wahidi, and Mufutau (surnames of the latter two yet to be confirmed). 

The spokesperson of the command, Toun Ejire-Adeyemi, who confirmed the incident assured the public that investigations are ongoing, adding that every effort is being made to rescue the victims unhurt and apprehend the perpetrators.

The statement also said that the State Police Command is aware of a viral video circulating on social media “purporting that residents of the village in Ganmu Ahileri, near Babanla in Ifelodun Local Government Area, have abandoned the community due to incessant bandit attacks — portraying the area as a ‘ghost town’

“The Command categorically states that the information is misleading and aimed at creating unnecessary panic and fear among citizens. While it is true that an unfortunate criminal incident occurred on 31 July 2025, where some unknown armed men attacked travellers in Ganmu village, Ifelodun Local Government, resulting in the d3ath of two victims and the kidnap of three others, the Command has since taken prompt and decisive action,” the statement read. 

"Upon receipt of the report, tactical operatives, including a combined team of police personnel, the military, and local vigilantes, were immediately deployed to the scene.

“Contrary to claims in the viral video, the armed security presence in the area — as seen in the clip — represents the coordinated deployment of law enforcement agents to restore confidence, maintain public safety, and ensure the rescue of kidnapped victims.

“This effort has since restored normalcy to the area.

“The Kwara State Police Command, under the leadership of the Commissioner of Police, CP Adekimi Ojo psc, mnips, remains committed to protecting lives and property across the state."