A fresh wave of violence struck parts of Kwara State on Sunday, April 21, 2025, as suspected bandits launched deadly assaults on Ilesha Baruba and Kemanji communities, claiming the lives of seven people, including a local vigilante.
The Kwara State Police Command confirmed the tragic incidents through a statement released in Ilorin on Tuesday by its spokesperson, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi.
She revealed that one of the casualties was a member of a vigilante group who died during a patrol operation in Kemanji, located within Kaiama Local Government Area.
“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 stated.
According to her, around 9:30 PM, ten armed men stormed the Ilesha Baruba Motor Park, firing 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.”
Earlier that same day, around 11:30 AM, a routine forest patrol by a vigilante unit from Kemanji encountered armed assailants suspected to be 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.”
Ejire-Adeyemi added that investigations led to the apprehension of a suspected informant who has since confessed to aiding the bandit group.
“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,” she said.
The police assured the affected communities of reinforced security presence, including the deployment of tactical squads, heightened surveillance, and intelligence-driven operations aimed at restoring calm.
Citizens were urged to collaborate with law enforcement agencies, with a stern warning issued against anyone found supporting criminal elements.
“Anyone aiding or abetting crime in any part of the state will face the full weight of the law,” the command emphasized.
