Bandits Kill Vigilante, 6 Others In Kwara

The Kwara State Police Command yesterday confirmed that gunmen have launched a deadly attack in Ilesha Baruba in the northern axis of the state, killing seven persons, including a vigilante.

The command said policemen have arrested an informant linked to a bandit network even as they intensified tactical efforts across the affected areas.

In a statement signed by its spokesperson, Toun Ejire—Adeyemi, the Command said it is investigating two grievous incidents that occurred on Sunday in the state’s Baruten and Kaiama local government areas.

“At about 21:30 hours, 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 11:30 hours, 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.

However, it assured residents of both communities that the whole security architecture has been activated, including tactical teams, intensified surveillance, and intelligence-led operations to restore peace and order.

The command 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.