From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
Residents of Babanla in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, have expressed relief after dozens of kidnap victims, escaped from the den of armed criminals at Babasango forest following a security raid.
The operation, which lasted from Sunday night until Monday morning, saw security forces storm the hideout in a coordinated effort to dislodge the kidnappers. Despite facing an ambush, operatives were able to overpower the criminals, leading to the death of several abductors while others fled.
A community source in Babanla confirmed that many of the freed victims have since found their way back to Babanla and Shagbe. “The security operation has really been a modest success. Not only were several criminals eliminated, but dozens of victims have also regained freedom. Many of them are now safe with their families,” the source said.
The operation also brought joy to residents when a forest guard earlier feared dead returned alive after the mission.
A government source explained that the success of the raid was a result of intensified efforts to chase kidnappers out of the state.
“Many of their abductors died in the encounter with security forces, while others fled. While more needs to be done, this operation has brought appreciable success in the fight against criminality. We will not relent until these cowards are completely driven out of Kwara,” he said.
Community leaders have also confirmed the presence of several victims who escaped during the raid, describing the development as a major relief to families and the entire area that has lived in fear of kidnappers’ activities.
