Army Arrest: Kwara Police Clear Vigilantes, Order Their Release

The Kwara State Police Command has confirmed the receipt and subsequent release of six vigilante members earlier arrested by the Nigerian Army in Edo State, following investigations that cleared them of any wrongdoing.

The vigilantes were arrested 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, for proper investigation and profiling.

According to the police, the handover was formally carried out by the Brigade Commander, 22 Armoured Brigade, Sobi Barracks, Ilorin, Brigadier General N.N. Rume.

After a detailed investigation, the police established that the individuals were genuine members of a recognised vigilante group working in collaboration with authorised security agencies to tackle banditry and other criminal activities.

“The investigation revealed that the suspects are legitimate vigilante operatives involved in community security efforts and posed no criminal threat,” the Command stated.

Based on the findings, the vigilante members were exonerated and released to their respective leaders.

Reacting to the development, the Commissioner of Police in Kwara State, CP Ojo Adekimi, reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to effective collaboration among security agencies and community-based security outfits.

CP Adekimi urged vigilante groups and similar organisations to always operate within the confines of the law, stressing that cooperation and lawful conduct remain critical to sustaining peace and security in the state.

He further assured residents that the Kwara State Police Command remains resolute in its mandate to protect lives and property across the state.