Late-night assault in Yashikira leaves community in chaos as gunmen raze royal residence and whisk away women, children, and others

Terror swept through Yashikira in Baruten Local Government Area of Kwara State after suspected armed bandits launched a coordinated late-night battle, setting the Emir’s palace on fire and abducting multiple residents, including some of the monarch’s wives.

Residents said the attackers stormed the community under the cover of darkness, shooting into the air to instill fear and force people to flee their homes. In the ensuing chaos, families scattered in different directions as the gunmen tightened the area.

Eyewitness accounts indicate that the royal palace was a primary target. Parts of the historic structure were set ablaze before the assailants rounded up victims and took them away.

“They came at night, attacked the palace, burned sections of it, and kidnapped many people, including women, children, and the Emir’s wives,” a resident recounted.

Another witness described the raid as prolonged and terrifying, noting that the attackers operated for hours without resistance while residents watched helplessly.

“People were running for their lives. The attackers were heavily armed, and no one could confront them. The entire community was thrown into chaos,” the source said.

The incident has heightened anxiety across Baruten LGA, a region already grappling with recurring security challenges linked to banditry and cross-border criminal activities.

Community leaders are now urging security agencies and the Kwara State Government to act swiftly by deploying reinforcements, restoring order, and ensuring the safe return of all abducted victims.

As of the time of filing this report, authorities have yet to issue an official statement, and details regarding the number of abductees and rescue efforts remain unclear.