Gunmen have kidnapped a police officer in Patigi Local Government Area of Kwara State.
The victim, identified as Ezra John, attached to the Lade Division, was abducted in the early hours of Thursday.
He was reportedly attacked on his way back from official duty at the Patigi General Hospital to his base in Lade. The incident occurred along the Patigi–Lade road, a route known for frequent criminal activities, raising fresh concerns among residents.
Confirming the incident, the spokesperson of the Kwara State Police Command, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, revealed that the officer’s motorcycle was discovered abandoned by the roadside.
“We have activated tactical teams to go find him. We are not leaving any stone unturned to ensure he is safely rescued and the perpetrators brought to book,” she said.
She further urged locals to assist security agencies with useful information.
“Residents are advised to be vigilant and report any strange movement or individual to security agencies.”
“The abduction has further raised concerns over growing insecurity in Patigi and its adjoining communities, with stakeholders calling for a stronger security presence to protect lives and property,” she added.
Gov’s Assurance
The abduction came just days after Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, vowed that “nowhere” in the state would serve as a safe haven for criminals.
“I have assurances from the security forces to smoke out and eliminate the criminals from their hideouts. We will fight insecurity with every resource at our disposal.
“Kwara will not be a hiding place for criminals,” the governor said after a security council meeting on Tuesday, according to a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Rafiu Ajakaye.
“To any criminal who seeks to destabilise the peace in Kwara, you may run, but you cannot escape justice,” he added.