Bandits Demand N100m Ransom for Wife of Slain Forest Guard in Kwara
Suspected armed bandits who killed a forest guard and abducted his wife in Oba-Isin, Isin Local Government Area of Kwara State, have demanded a ransom of N100 million for her release, according to family members and residents.
Sources said the attack occurred on Wednesday evening when gunmen stormed the community and engaged the forest guard, Mr. Raheem Ogunrinde, popularly known as Baba Kafaya, in a gun battle. He was killed during the confrontation, while his wife, Mrs. Funke Ogunrinde, was taken away by the attackers.
A relative, who spoke anonymously to journalists in Ilorin, disclosed that the kidnappers contacted the family on Thursday morning with a demand for N100 million in exchange for Mrs. Ogunrinde’s freedom. Attempts to negotiate a reduction in the ransom and mobilise funds have so far yielded no breakthrough.
The incident reportedly triggered panic in the community, with many residents fleeing to neighbouring towns for safety. Security operatives have since been deployed to the area to prevent further attacks and reassure residents.
The abduction is the latest in a series of kidnapping cases reported in parts of Kwara State, where criminal groups have continued to target communities and demand hefty ransoms from victims’ families, deepening insecurity and economic hardship.
As of Friday morning, the police and other security agencies had yet to issue an official statement regarding the ransom demand or ongoing rescue efforts. Family members and residents say they remain anxious as they await further developments.
Blessing Anolaba
Editorial & Creative Correspondent
A storyteller and journalist passionate about telling stories for policy change and impact.
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