Suspected bandits killed seven people—including a vigilante—in separate attacks on Sunday, April 21, 2025, in Ilesha Baruba and Kemanji communities of Baruten and Kaiama Local Government Areas, Kwara North Senatorial District.
According to the state police spokesperson, SP Adetoun Ejire‑Adeyemi, “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.”
At around 9:30 p.m., ten armed men stormed the Ilesha Baruba Motor Park and opened fire on civilians gathered at a nearby relaxation spot. Six people—identified as Alhaji Ja’awire, AbdulJabar, Mohammed Nasamu, and three others—were killed, and two more suffered serious gunshot wounds.
“The deceased have been deposited at the Ilesha Baruba Morgue for autopsy, while the injured are receiving treatment,” Ejire‑Adeyemi said.
Earlier that day, at about 11:30 a.m., a Kemanji-based vigilante group on patrol in the Kainji National Park area came under fire from suspected bandits.
In the ensuing exchange, three bandits were fatally wounded, and vigilante member Yusuf Samba “M” was shot and later succumbed to his injuries.
Ejire‑Adeyemi added that police have arrested an informant linked to the bandit network. “This individual has proven to be a valuable asset in advancing the investigation.”
The Kwara State Police Command has activated full security measures—including tactical teams, intensified surveillance, and intelligence‑led operations—to restore peace.
Residents are urged to cooperate with law enforcement and warned that anyone aiding or abetting crime will “face the full weight of the law.”
