Gunmen Kill 12 Vigilantes, Village Head in Brutal Attack on Kwara Community
The Kwara State Police Command has confirmed the killing of 12 vigilante members, including the Baale (village head) of Ogbayo in Oke-Ode, Ifelodun Local Government Area, following a deadly attack by suspected gunmen.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Adetoun Ejinre-Adeyemi, said the armed men stormed the Ogbayo area, shooting sporadically, leaving residents in fear and mourning.
Police, Security Operatives Respond Swiftly
According to the statement, a combined team of police operatives and the National Forest Security Service responded promptly to the distress call. On arrival, they discovered the lifeless bodies of the 12 victims, including the traditional ruler of Ogbayo, who were all killed by multiple gunshot wounds.
Four others who sustained injuries during the attack were immediately rushed to the hospital for medical attention, while the deceased were evacuated from the scene.
Security Agencies Intensify Manhunt
The police spokesperson noted that the Command, in collaboration with the military and other security agencies, has launched a full-scale operation to track down the perpetrators of what was described as a “heinous crime.”
She assured residents of Kwara State that the Command remains committed to safeguarding lives and property, urging communities to remain calm but vigilant while security operations continue in the area.
Wave of Concern Over Rising Insecurity
The brazen attack has reignited concerns over rural insecurity in parts of Kwara State, where vigilante groups often serve as the first line of defense for local communities. The killing of the Baale of Ogbayo alongside his men is seen as a major blow to grassroots security efforts in the region.