Nigeria, April 17 -- Suspected bandits have raided communities in Isin and Ifelodun local government areas of Kwara State, abducting several residents, injuring others, and rustling cattle in incidents that have heightened security concerns in the southern part of the state.

The attacks occurred late Wednesday and targeted Iwo Odo-Ore in Isin Local Government Area, as well as Gaa-Idera and Gaa Dembo-Agunjin in Ifelodun Local Government Area, according to multiple sources familiar with the incidents.

Sahara Reporters, citing security sources, reported that the assailants struck the communities almost simultaneously, suggesting a high level of planning and coordination.

A source who spoke to the newspaper said gunmen opened fire in Gaa-I...