A policeman has been abducted by suspected bandits in Kwara State, Nigeria. Ezra John, attached to the Lade Division, was taken in the early hours of Thursday while returning from official duty at the Patigi General Hospital. The incident occurred along the Patigi–Lade road, a notorious route prone to frequent criminal attacks.

According to the state police command, John’s motorcycle was found abandoned on the roadside. The command’s spokesperson, Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, confirmed the incident and stated that a tactical team has been deployed to rescue the victim. “We have activated tactical teams to find him, and we are not leaving any stone unturned to ensure he is safely rescued and the perpetrators brought to book,” she said.

Ejire-Adeyemi appealed to residents to be vigilant and report any suspicious movements to security agencies, which will aid in the search and rescue efforts. The abduction has raised concerns over the growing insecurity in Patigi and its surrounding communities, with stakeholders calling for a stronger security presence to protect lives and property.

The Patigi–Lade road has been a hotbed of criminal activity, with frequent reports of banditry and kidnappings. The latest incident highlights the need for enhanced security measures to ensure the safety of residents and commuters. The police command’s efforts to rescue the abducted policeman are ongoing, with a focus on tracking down the perpetrators and bringing them to justice.

The abduction of Ezra John is a concerning development in the context of Nigeria’s broader security challenges. The country has been grappling with issues of banditry, kidnapping, and armed robbery, particularly in the northern regions. The incident serves as a reminder of the need for sustained efforts to address these security concerns and ensure the protection of lives and property. As the search for John continues, residents are advised to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies to prevent similar incidents.