Kwara State Police Command on Tuesday confirmed that gunmen launched a deadly attack in Ilesha – Baruba in the northern axis of the state, killing seven persons, including a vigilante.
The command also said policemen have arrested an informant linked to bandit network even as they intensified tactical efforts across the affected areas.
Spokesperson of the Command, Toun Ejire-Adeyemi, said the Command said it was investigating two grievous incidents that occurred on Sunday in Baruten and Kaiama local government areas of the state.
“At about 2130hrs, suspected armed men, numbering ten, stormed the Ilesha – Baruba Motor Park and opened fire indiscriminately at civilians gathered at a nearby relaxation spot. As a result, six persons, identified as Alhaji Ja’awire, AbdulJabar, Mohammed Nasamu, and three others, lost their lives, while two others sustained serious gunshot injuries.
“The deceased have been deposited at the Ilesha Baruba Morgue for autopsy, while the injured are receiving treatment. An investigation has been initiated, and full security measures have been implemented to ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice.
“In a related incident earlier the same day at about 1130hrs, a Kemanji-based vigilante group on routine foot patrol encountered suspected bandits within the Kainji National Park area.
“In the course of the gun duel, three of the suspected bandits suffered fatal gunshot wounds and a member of the vigilante, Yusuf Samba ‘M’ was shot and later succumbed to gunshot injury.
“Our investigation culminated in the arrest of an informant, who admitted to collaborating with a group of bandits. This individual has proven to be a valuable asset in advancing the investigation,” the command said.
The Command, however, assured residents of both communities that full security architecture has been activated, including tactical teams, intensified surveillance, and intelligence-led operations aimed at restoring peace and order.
It urged residents of the areas to cooperate with law enforcement agencies, warning that anyone aiding or abetting crime in any part of the state will face the full weight of the law.
