The Kwara State Police Command has confirmed that six vigilante operatives earlier arrested by soldiers in Edo State have been released after investigations found no evidence of criminal activity.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, said the vigilantes were initially apprehended by Nigerian Army personnel in early December 2025 along the Auchi–Ikpeshi Road in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area of Edo State.
According to the police, the men were travelling in a patrol vehicle belonging to Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State when they were intercepted by troops.
Handed over for investigation
The suspects were formally handed over to the Kwara State Police Command on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, by the Brigade Commander of the 22 Armoured Brigade, Sobi Barracks, Ilorin, Brigadier General N. N. Rume, for profiling and investigation.
Police said inquiries revealed that the individuals are bona fide members of a recognised vigilante group working alongside authorised security agencies in efforts to curb banditry and other crimes.
“After a thorough investigation, the individuals were cleared of any criminal involvement and released to their respective leaders,” the statement said.
Police emphasise lawful operations
The Commissioner of Police in Kwara State, CP Ojo Adekimi, reaffirmed the command’s commitment to cooperation with other security agencies and community-based security outfits. He, however, urged vigilante groups to operate strictly within the law and established guidelines.
The command also reassured residents of its continued dedication to safeguarding lives and property across the state.
Viral video sparked controversy
The arrest followed the circulation of a viral video reported by The PUNCH on December 14, 2025, showing soldiers interrogating suspected armed men allegedly found patrolling with AK-47 rifles in a local government security vehicle marked with Ifelodun Local Government insignia.
In the footage, the suspects were seen restrained while soldiers questioned them about their mission and the origin of the weapons. One of the men claimed the patrol vehicle and firearms were supplied by the “Ilorin government,” a statement that generated widespread public concern.
Kwara government denies allegations
The Kwara State Government subsequently dismissed claims that it armed the suspects. In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Communications, Mrs Bolanle Olukoju, the government said no security agency had arrested armed bandits in Ifelodun or any part of the state.
She also stressed that no state government has the authority to issue or distribute AK-47 rifles, describing the allegations as false and misleading.
The police say investigations into the circumstances surrounding the incident have now been concluded, with the vigilantes cleared and released.
Source: Africa Publicity
