The Department of State Services (DSS) has arrested a medical doctor accused of transporting medical supplies from Sokoto State to armed kidnappers operating in parts of Kwara State.
According to a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Rafiu Ajakaye, the suspect was intercepted in the Jebba area after intelligence reports linked him to criminal gangs receiving medical support from outside the state.
Security officials said the bandits have become increasingly desperate for medical attention, especially for gunshot wounds sustained during clashes with security operatives.
“So, we are advising improved security measures in health facilities in thickly forested areas, which the kidnappers may target,” a security source warned.
Kwara State has faced a string of violent attacks in recent months. In November, gunmen abducted 38 worshippers and killed three people in the Eruku community. A farmer was also seized along the Eruku–Koro Road by armed assailants reportedly wielding AK-47 rifles and cutlasses.
A community leader, who requested anonymity, said the attackers invaded during work hours and kidnapped one Annas Aasanru, a native of Eruku.
In the same month, the Ojibara of Bayagan, Oba Kamilu Salami, was abducted in Ifelodun Local Government Area but later escaped along with six others on December 1 after local vigilantes mounted a fierce offensive against their captors.
In another incident in Bokungi Village, Edu Local Government Area, gunmen abducted four rice farmers during harvest. Witnesses said the attackers stormed the farms, surrounded the workers, and forced them into the bush before taking them to an unknown location.
The series of attacks has deepened concerns over rising insecurity in rural communities across the state.
