Kwara Monarch, Six Others Escape from Bandits’ Den

The abducted traditional ruler of Bayagan community in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, Alhaji Kamilu Salami, has regained freedom alongside six other captives after successfully escaping from the den of their abductors. This development was confirmed on Sunday evening, according to information gathered from community sources who spoke to Vanguard

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The monarch, popularly known as the Ojibara of Bayagan, was kidnapped on Saturday morning while working on his farm. Eyewitness accounts indicated that the armed bandits invaded the farmland and whisked him away in what locals described as a coordinated attack. The incident triggered panic across the community, prompting security operatives and vigilante groups to intensify search efforts. However, early reports suggested that the bandits had moved the captives deep into the surrounding forest, making immediate rescue operations difficult.

According to community leaders familiar with the situation, the monarch and the six other abductees managed to escape from captivity after taking advantage of a moment of vulnerability in the bandits’ camp. A source close to the palace explained that the escape occurred in the early hours of Sunday, adding that the victims trekked for several hours through the forest before reaching safety.

Security operatives were immediately alerted, and the escaped victims were moved to a safe location for medical examination. A senior local security official, who requested anonymity, reported that the survivors were exhausted but in stable condition. He added that the successful escape was aided by growing pressure from security patrols that had begun closing in on the general area.

Community members have expressed relief at the monarch’s return, with many describing the development as a “miraculous escape.” According to residents, fear had gripped the area since Saturday, especially after unconfirmed reports suggested the bandits were considering demanding a large ransom.

Authorities in Kwara State are expected to release an official statement as investigations continue. Meanwhile, security agencies reportedly remain in the forest, searching for possible remnants of the kidnappers and working to prevent further attacks in the region.