The Kwara State Government has announced the killing of a notorious kidnap kingpin, Maidawa, along with several of his gang members during ongoing airstrikes by the Nigerian Air Force in forests around Isanlu-Isin and neighbouring Kogi State.
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Rafiu Ajakaiye, said intercepted communications confirmed Maidawa’s death during a joint security operation on September 30. He added that the news was relayed by another wanted kidnapper, Baccujo, to his associates in Katsina State.
According to the government, the intensified operation follows recent attacks in the state, including the assault on Oke-Ode that left at least eleven forest guards and residents dead. Security forces are now extending the crackdown to areas in Ekiti, Ifelodun, Isin, Edu, and Patigi local government areas, in a bid to dismantle kidnapping networks and restore safety to communities frequently targeted by bandits.
