Suspected bandits have reportedly killed two persons and kidnapped two others, including the Village Head of Rani Community in Patigi local government area of Kwara State.

THISDAY checks revealed that the bandits were said to have invaded the Rani village on the night of Sunday while the residents were about to observe their Magrib prayer in the village.

It was gathered that the assailants shot sporadically to create fear among the residents before carrying out their dastardly act.

Sources close to the town told journalists in Ilorin on Monday that the assailants killed two persons before abducting the village head and one other person.

The situation has created fears among the villagers as the assailants were yet to get in touch with the families of the victims for the payment of ransom.

The source who spoke in Nupe language said, “They came in the evening at about 7pm; they met us at the mosque while we were getting ready for Maghrib prayer,” the source informed.

“Security situation here in Rani Village (Patigi) remains tense oo. We are still where we were.

“We are in serious crisis here in Patigi district of Kwara state. We cannot sleep with our two eyes closed talk less of going to our farms for economic activities. If you go to farms today, fear of not coming back is heightened in our area.

“We are appealing to both the federal and state governments to deploy more troops to the Patigi District of the state so as to bring calm and development to the area.”

However, a senior police officer with the Patigi Division, confirmed the incident.

He said: “We have informed the State Police Command for further action and to ensure the rescue of the victims.”

Recall that suspected bandits killed a pastor of the Evangelical Church of West Africa (ECWA), Rev. James Audu Issa, in Ekati village, also in Patigi, after the payment of ransom.

His abductors allegedly demanded ?100 million as ransom. The family, however, pleaded, bargained, and paid ?5 million to secure his release.

It was after receiving the money that the kidnappers demanded additional ?45 million and later killed the pastor before further talks could resume. (THISDAY)