THE Kwara State Police Command has confirmed the release of six vigilante operatives who were earlier arrested by the Nigerian Army in Edo State.
In a statement issued today, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, said the vigilantes were initially apprehended in early December 2025 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 subsequently handed over to the Kwara State Police Command on December 31, 2025.
According to the police, the suspects were formally transferred to the command by the Brigade Commander of the 22 Armoured Brigade, Sobi Barracks, Ilorin, Brigadier General N. N. Rume, for investigation and profiling.
Following thorough inquiries, the command established that the individuals were legitimate members of a vigilante group working in collaboration with recognised security agencies to combat banditry and other criminal activities.
The statement noted that the vigilantes were cleared of any wrongdoing and released to their respective leaders.
The Commissioner of Police, Ojo Adekimi, reaffirmed the command’s commitment to inter-agency cooperation and partnership with community-based security outfits, while advising vigilante groups to always operate within the bounds of the law.
He also assured residents of Kwara State of the police’s continued dedication to safeguarding lives and property.
The development follows a viral video circulated in December 2025 showing soldiers interrogating suspected bandits allegedly found patrolling with AK-47 rifles in a local government-branded security vehicle.
The Kwara State Government had earlier dismissed claims that it armed the suspects, insisting that no state government has the authority to distribute such weapons.