Police Arrest Informant As Gunmen Launch Deadly Attack In Kwara Community, Six Dead, Vigilante Killed

Ilorin,  Kwara State– The Kwara State Police Command has confirmed two deadly incidents that unfolded on Sunday, April 20, 2025, in Baruten and Kaiama Local Government Areas, leaving the region in shock and mourning.

According to a statement released on Tuesday by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, the first incident took place at around 9:30 PM when ten heavily armed men stormed the Ilesha Baruba Motor Park.

The gunmen opened fire indiscriminately at civilians gathered at a nearby relaxation spot, killing six individuals, including Alhaji Ja’awire, AbdulJabar, Mohammed Nasamu, and three others whose identities are yet to be confirmed.

“The situation was chaotic, as the gunmen launched an attack without warning. Six lives were tragically lost, and two others were seriously wounded,” said SP Ejire-Adeyemi.

“Our hearts go out to the families of the victims, and we are working tirelessly to bring the perpetrators to justice.”

The deceased have been deposited at the Ilesha Baruba Morgue for autopsy, while the injured are receiving medical treatment at a nearby hospital.

However,  police have initiated a full investigation into the attack, with enhanced security measures already in place to apprehend those responsible.

In a related development earlier on the same day, a vigilante group from Kemanji was conducting a routine patrol within the Kainji National Park area when they encountered a group of suspected bandits.

A gunfight ensued, resulting in the death of three bandits. hiwever, one vigilante member, Yusuf Samba, was killed after sustaining gunshot wounds during the exchange.

“The bravery of the vigilante group was commendable, but unfortunately, we lost one of our own. We extend our deepest condolences to the family of Yusuf Samba,” SP Ejire-Adeyemi stated.

“His sacrifice will not be forgotten, and we are dedicated to bringing those responsible for his death to justice.”

In the course of ongoing investigations, police arrested an informant who has confessed to collaborating with the bandit network. This individual’s cooperation is expected to be crucial in the investigation’s progress.

“Our investigation has yielded a significant breakthrough with the arrest of this informant, whose confession has added considerable value to our understanding of the criminal network,” Ejire-Adeyemi explained.

“We are committed to ensuring that all perpetrators face the full force of the law.”

The Kwara State Police Command has reassured residents of Ilesha Baruba, Kemanji, and surrounding areas that full security measures have been activated, including tactical teams, enhanced surveillance, and intelligence-driven operations aimed at curbing criminal activities and restoring peace to the affected regions.

“We urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to law enforcement authorities. Anyone found aiding or abetting criminals will face the consequences of their actions,” Ejire-Adeyemi added.