The Kwara State Police Command has dismissed reports claiming that 176 residents were abducted during an attack on Woro and Nuku communities in Kaiama Local Government Area, describing the figure as unverified and speculative.

The command, while confirming that armed assailants attacked the border communities, said security agencies were still conducting investigations, community assessments and rescue operations to determine the actual number of affected residents.

Speaking in Ilorin, the police said the reported figure of 176 kidnapped persons could not be independently confirmed and urged the public to rely on verified information from security authorities.

“The figure of 176 abducted persons being quoted is unconfirmed and speculative,” the command stated, adding that tactical teams had been deployed to the affected areas to secure the communities, identify missing persons and track down the attackers.

The attack reportedly occurred in rural settlements around the Kwara-Niger border, causing panic among residents, with some fleeing into nearby forests and surrounding areas for safety.

Following the incident, security agencies, in collaboration with local vigilante groups and community leaders, began efforts to establish the number of residents affected through household checks and community-level assessments.

The police said joint security operations were ongoing in Kaiama Local Government Area, with patrols intensified along border routes and forest corridors believed to be used by criminal groups.

Officials said the verification process was necessary to avoid spreading inaccurate figures that could create panic and affect ongoing security operations.

Community leaders and residents in the affected areas have expressed concerns over repeated attacks on border communities, calling for stronger security measures to protect rural settlements.

They appealed for increased deployment of police and military personnel, improved surveillance and sustained operations to prevent further attacks.

The Kwara State Government assured residents that it was working with security agencies to restore calm, protect vulnerable communities and support families affected by the incident.

Authorities have urged residents and media organisations to avoid circulating unconfirmed reports as security operations continue.

The police said updates would be provided as investigations progress and verified information becomes available.