Suspected bandits have killed seven people including a vigilante in Ilesha Baruba and Kemanji communities of Baruten and Kaiama Local Government Areas of Kwara North Senatorial District.
Spokesperson of the state police command, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, confirmed in a statement in Ilorin on Tuesday that the incident occurred on Sunday during a deadly attack on the communities.
The spokesperson disclosed that among those killed was a vigilante who died during forest patrol at Kemanji, Kaiama Local Government Area of the state.
According to the statement, the police arrested an informant linked to the bandit network as tactical efforts intensify across affected regions.
“The state police command is investigating two grievous incidents that occurred on Sunday, April 21, 2025, in Baruten and Kaiama Local Government Areas of the state.”
Ejire-Adeyemi, revealed that at about 2130hrs, suspected armed men, numbering 10, 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 a 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 statement added.
The state police command 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 citizens 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.
