Armed bandits have attacked a church in Kwara State, abducting several worshippers during a service. The incident occurred at Christ Apostolic Church, Oke Isegun, in Eruku, Ekiti Local Government Area of the state.
The attackers reportedly arrived at the church in the evening and opened fire from outside before storming the building. Worshippers fled in different directions as gunshots rang out, while some were seized and taken into the bush by the gunmen.
Police authorities in Kwara confirmed the attack and said two people were killed, while a vigilante member sustained gunshot injuries. The victims who died were identified as worshippers who were shot during the raid, and their bodies were later recovered in and around the church premises.
The spokesperson for the Kwara State Police Command said operatives, working with local vigilantes, responded quickly after receiving distress calls about gunshots near the community. Their intervention forced the bandits to flee into the bush, but not before they had taken some worshippers away.
Security agencies have launched a search and rescue operation to track the attackers and free the abducted church members. The Commissioner of Police assured residents that the command will not relent until the bandits are arrested and the victims safely rescued.
The attack has sparked fear and anger among residents, who are calling for stronger security measures to protect rural communities and places of worship. Religious leaders and rights groups have also urged government and security agencies to step up efforts against banditry and ensure that worshippers can gather without fear.
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