Just In! Army Hands Over, Police Clear Kwara Vigilantes Arrested in Edo
By the Editor
The Kwara State Police Command has confirmed the release of six vigilante members arrested by the Nigerian Army in Edo State after investigations showed they committed no offence.
The vigilantes were apprehended along the Auchi–Ikpeshi Road in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area of Edo State while travelling in a vehicle belonging to Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State. They were later handed over to the Kwara State Police Command on Wednesday, December 31, 2025.
According to the police, the handover was carried out by the Brigade Commander of the 22 Armoured Brigade, Sobi Barracks, Ilorin, Brigadier General N.N. Rume, to enable proper investigation and profiling of the suspects.
A statement by the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, said investigations revealed that the individuals are “legitimate members of a vigilante group working in collaboration with recognised security agencies in the fight against banditry and other criminal activities.”
She added that, “having been exonerated of any criminal wrongdoing, the vigilante members were released to their respective leaders.”
The Commissioner of Police in Kwara State, CP Ojo Adekimi, reiterated the command’s commitment to effective collaboration among security agencies and community-based security outfits.
“The command believes strongly in synergy among all security stakeholders, but all groups must operate strictly within the confines of the law,” the police commissioner said.
CP Adekimi also assured residents that the police remain resolute in ensuring the safety and security of lives and property across the state, urging members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information.