Kwara State Police Command has confirmed that seven people, including a local vigilante were killed by armed bandits that raided Baruten and Kaiama local governments last Sunday.

Eyewitnesses said that ten armed bandits had earlier arrived the Ilesha Baruba motor park and opened fire on the innocent residents who had gathered at a social joint.

Police Public Relations Officer, Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi said that “the command is investigating two grievous incidents that occurred on Sunday, April 20, 2025, 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,” she said.

The police image maker listed the unfortunate residents caught by the bullets to as Alhaji Ja’awire, AbdulJabar, Mohammed Nasamu, and three others.

She added that 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,” she said.

Relatedly, earlier the same day at about 1130hrs, Adetoun recalled that a Kemanji-based vigilante group on routine patrol confronted 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 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 Kwara State Police Command assures 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.”

She however warned residents against aiding or abetting crime in any part of the state so as not to witttingly face the full weight of the law.