Bandits have attacked the Isapa community in the Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State, abducting 11 residents in a night raid that left the neighbourhood in panic.

The gunmen, reportedly more than 20 in number, stormed the community on Monday, driving a large herd of cattle and firing shots indiscriminately. An elderly woman was said to have been struck by a stray bullet.

A community leader, who confirmed the incident on condition of anonymity, said 11 people were taken, seven of whom belong to the same family. The abducted victims include a pregnant woman, two nursing mothers, and several young children.

The victims were identified as: Talatu Kabiru (female, 20); Magaji (male, 6); Kande (female, 5); Hadiza (female, 10); Mariam (female, 6); Saima (female, 5); Habibat (housewife); Fatima Yusufu (pregnant woman); Sarah Sunday (female, 22); Lami Fidelis (female, 23, nursing mother); and Haja Na Allah (nursing mother).

Eyewitnesses reported that the attackers moved through parts of the town, leaving bullet holes in walls and doors. Spent AK-47 cartridges were found scattered across the community after the assailants fled. Police authorities have yet to issue an official statement.

The latest attack comes barely two weeks after gunmen struck the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) in Eruku, located in the same local government area. During that incident, the attackers kidnapped 38 worshippers, while others reportedly died. The abductees have since been released.

Channels Television earlier reported that panic and tears swept through the congregation as terrorists stormed the church during a meeting, opening fire and sending worshippers scrambling for safety. Three members were reportedly shot dead before an unspecified number of people, including the pastor, were seized.

The attackers were said to have escaped through bush paths linking Eruku to neighbouring communities, leaving residents in shock and fear.