Bandits have killed seven people, including a vigilante member in Ilesha Baruba and Kemanji communities of Baruten and Kaiama Local Government Areas of Kwara State.
This was contained in a statement issued on Tuesday by the spokesperson of the state police command, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi.
He confirmed that the police arrested an informant linked to the bandit network as tactical efforts intensify across affected regions.
According to him, "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 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."
He added that "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."