Bandits planning to strike during crossover services

The Kwara State Government has warned that bandits are planning to launch attacks during crossover services and the New Year holiday.

It therefore urged residents to remain vigilant and security conscious.

According to the government, the warning followed intelligence reports suggesting that criminal elements intend to target government infrastructure and other soft locations to avenge recent losses suffered from security operations.

“The advisory has become necessary following credible intelligence reports that some bad faith actors are planning to hit government infrastructure or other soft targets,” the government said in a statement by the Commissioner for Communication, Bolanle Olukoju on Wednesday.

Residents were advised to limit non essential movements and avoid large gatherings that could expose them to danger during the festive period.

“We encourage members of the public to exercise caution, avoid non essential movements, or large gatherings that may be targeted by kidnappers,” the statement added.

The government urged heightened vigilance during crossover services and New Year celebrations, assuring residents of increased security presence across the state.

“Citizens are advised to be vigilant, especially during crossover services and the New Year holiday, while security forces will continue to intensify efforts to protect lives and property,” it said.

Members of the public were also encouraged to report suspicious movements to security agencies.

“Prompt reporting of unusual movements of persons, especially convoys of motorcycles, is strongly encouraged,” the statement noted.

Daily Trust reports that the state had witnessed security challenges, particularly along its rural and forested corridors bordering neighbouring states.

Incidents of banditry, kidnapping and violent attacks on farming communities have become more frequent, forcing residents in some areas to abandon their homes and farmlands.

In response, the state government intensified collaboration with security agencies, supported local vigilante groups and stepped up intelligence gathering.