A major security crackdown is currently happening in Share, the headquarters of Ifelodun Local Government Area in Kwara State. This follows a coordinated effort by security forces targeting suspected bandits and kidnappers in the area.
The joint operation began around 8:00 PM on Tuesday night. It includes personnel from the Nigerian Army, local Forest Guards, and vigilante groups working together to dismantle criminal hideouts in the forests surrounding the town.
Heavy Exchange of Gunfire Rocks Share Community
Residents of Share and nearby areas were thrown into panic as gunfire echoed across the community for hours. Eyewitnesses described the confrontation as one of the most serious security engagements seen in the area for quite some time.
“The sound of gunshots has been nonstop. The soldiers and vigilantes moved into the forest in large numbers. You can hear serious exchange of fire.”
The intensity of the gun battle suggests that armed groups tried to resist the advancing security forces, leading to a fierce exchange.
Security sources say the operation was based on solid intelligence about the movement and locations of suspected bandits. These individuals are believed to be responsible for a series of kidnappings, attacks on farmers, and threats to commuters in parts of Kwara South.
In recent months, communities within Ifelodun Local Government Area have faced rising security concerns. Criminal gangs have been taking advantage of the dense forests as bases for their operations.
Tuesday’s operation seems to be a direct response aimed at breaking up these hideouts and restoring public trust.
Forest Camps Targeted: The forests around have long been suspected to be hideouts for armed groups that operate in difficult terrain. The coordinated raid focused on flushing out these suspected camps and neutralizing threats from criminals.
Local vigilante groups, familiar with the terrain, played a key role in guiding military personnel through the forest paths.
As gunfire continued into the night, security personnel advised residents to stay indoors and avoid affected areas to prevent civilian casualties.
Many households turned off lights, while others sought safer shelter inside as gunshots rang out across the community.
Kwara South Share serves as the administrative center of Ifelodun LGA and is strategically located in Kwara South Senatorial District.
Security analysts believe that controlling forest corridors in this region is essential for preventing the spread of banditry and kidnapping into nearby communities.
Rising Security Concerns in North-Central Nigeria
While Kwara State has not historically been among the most dangerous for armed banditry, recent months have seen more reports of kidnappings and armed attacks across North-Central Nigeria.
Experts think that criminal networks displaced from other areas may be looking for new places to operate.
As of the time of this report now, no official casualty figures or outcomes from the operation have been released.
Neither the Kwara State Government nor the public relations unit of the Nigerian Army has issued a formal statement confirming the operation's details.
However, residents remain hopeful that the ongoing crackdown will significantly weaken the criminal networks in the forests.
If successful, the operation could represent a major step toward restoring peace to affected communities and protecting farmers, traders, and travelers who have faced threats recently.
Security experts emphasize that ongoing intelligence gathering, community involvement, and quick-response operations are crucial for addressing changing security challenges.
No Official Statement Yet From Kwara Government
The situation is still unfolding as security forces continue operations in the forests around Share.
Residents should keep an eye on official updates and follow the instructions of security agencies.
More details are expected as authorities provide verified information about arrests, recoveries, or casualties from the operation.