Police Debunk Claim of 'Ghost Town' in Kwara After Bandit Attack

The Kwara State Police Command has dismissed a viral video making rounds on social media, which falsely claimed that a village in Ganmu Ahileri, near Babanla in Ifelodun Local Government Area, had been deserted due to rampant bandit attacks.

The Commissioner of Police, Adekimi Ojo, labeled the video as “misleading” and an attempt to cause unnecessary panic among the public.

“The information in the video is false and aimed at spreading fear,” the police said in a statement issued by spokesperson SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi on Thursday in Ilorin.

While confirming that a criminal incident occurred on July 31, 2025, where unknown gunmen attacked travelers near Ganmu village, the police emphasized that the situation has been brought under control.

According to the police, the attackers ambushed a vehicle heading from Lagos to Babanla after it experienced a flat tire near the village. During the assault:

Two people — Alhaji Abdulrazak Ewenla and Jimoh Audu — were killed

Three others — Kazeem Ajide, Wahidi, and Mufutau — were kidnapped

In response, the police deployed tactical teams, including a joint force of military personnel and local vigilantes, to the area. The viral video, which showed a heavy presence of armed security agents, was falsely interpreted as evidence of a deserted community, whereas it actually captured the ongoing rescue and protection efforts.

“The armed presence in the area is to restore confidence, ensure public safety, and facilitate the rescue of kidnapped victims,” the statement clarified.

The police also assured residents that investigations are ongoing, and efforts are in motion to rescue the abducted individuals and bring the perpetrators to justice.

Commissioner Ojo reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to protecting lives and property, urging the public to verify information before sharing it online.