Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, on Wednesday approved a N10 million support package for the family of a slain forest guard, Mr Omotosho Olawuyi Samuel, who lost his life during a confrontation with suspected kidnappers in Koro community, Ekiti Local Government Area of the state.

Samuel, who had recently been deployed as a forest guard, paid the supreme sacrifice last Sunday when he and his colleagues engaged suspected kidnappers in Koro, Ekiti LGA of Kwara State.

Blueprint.ng gathered that about 15 heavily armed bandits reportedly invaded the community, firing shots into the air and causing residents to flee their homes in panic.

It was further learnt that the attackers were later intercepted near a secondary school by a joint team of forest guards and hunters who had received information about their presence.

A gun battle reportedly followed during which the late Samuel was killed.

In a statement issued by the Governor's Chief Press Secretary, Rafiu Ajakaye, AbdulRazaq expressed sadness over the death of the "gallant forest guard", describing him as "a hero".

"He is our hero, and we ask God to give succour to his family," the statement further quoted the governor as saying.

"The governor commends the bravery and patriotism of the forest guards and local vigilantes who launched an assault on the fleeing kidnappers.

"Governor announces a N10m support for the family of the operative as a token of government's gratitude for his sacrifice apart from him going down as a hero of the people's collective war against banditry.

"He commiserates with the family of Mr. Samuel and his comrades who bravely fought along with him", the statement reads in part.