25/05/2026
Bandits Storm Yashikira Palace and Police Station, Kidnap Emir’s Wives and Children in Midnight Raid
Armed gunmen suspected to be bandits attacked Yashikira town in Baruten Local Government Area in the early hours of May 25, 2026, abducting three wives and five children of the Emir of Yashikira.
The assault began around 12:30 a.m. when the attackers arrived on an estimated 40 motorcycles, with about three riders on each bike, according to eyewitnesses. The gunmen first targeted the Yashikira Divisional Police Station before moving to the Emir’s palace. No police officers were injured in the attack on the station.
After subduing the police post, the group advanced to the palace. They killed three ostriches kept within the compound and attempted to set the palace ablaze, but the fire did not take hold. Several properties were destroyed during the raid. A Toyota Hilux was burnt completely, while an attempt to burn the Emir’s official vehicle was unsuccessful.
The attackers forcibly removed three of the Emir’s wives and five children from their hideout and took them away. The abducted wives have been identified as Hauwau Sariki (Yakene), Rekiya Sariki, and Hafsa Sariki. The children taken include *Sani, Maryam, and Hakima, while the names of the other two children are yet to be confirmed.
Eyewitnesses said the Emir confronted the assailants before escaping to safety as gunshots continued. He is reported to be unharmed and in good health. No other residents were attacked, according to local sources.
As of the time of this report, the gunmen had not contacted the families of the abducted, and the Kwara State Police Command had not yet released an official statement on the incident.
The attack underscores the persistent insecurity in Kwara North, where Baruten and neighboring Kaiama LGA have seen repeated assaults on rural communities in recent months. Residents are urging the government and security agencies to strengthen patrols and secure the release of those kidnapped.
Sources : Barutem TV
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