Heavily armed attackers storm Ori-Oke Ajaiye prayer ground during evening service as police launch manhunt and rescue operation.

Panic and grief have engulfed communities in Kwara State after gunmen attacked a night vigil, killing three worshippers and abducting at least 15 others in a late-night raid.

The assault occurred on Friday at Ori-Oke Ajaiye, near Ekerin Village in Ekiti Local Government Area, where members of a church had gathered for prayers. Witness accounts and police reports indicate the attackers struck around 8:30 p.m., opening fire and throwing the gathering into chaos.

Three victims were confirmed dead at the scene, while several others were forcefully taken away by the assailants to an undisclosed location.

Kwara State Police Command spokesperson, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, condemned the incident, describing it as “gruesome, barbaric and unacceptable.” She confirmed that the victims were attacked while observing the vigil and that a rescue effort is already underway.

The vigil was reportedly led by Pastor Adebayo Abiodun of Ijo Ajaye Ati Igbala, who raised the alarm following the attack.

Police operatives from the Ekiti Division responded swiftly to the distress call, while the Commissioner of Police, CP Ojo Adekimi, has ordered a coordinated operation to track down the perpetrators and secure the release of the abducted victims.

The operation, according to authorities, involves the Police Mobile Force, intelligence units, and drone surveillance teams combing surrounding forests and communities.

Officials say efforts are ongoing to locate the kidnappers and ensure the safe return of those taken, while assuring residents that security presence has been intensified across the area.

The incident has renewed concerns over rising insecurity in parts of Nigeria, with residents increasingly worried about the safety of public and religious gatherings.