The Kwara State Police Command has confirmed the receipt and subsequent release of six vigilante members who were earlier arrested by personnel of the Nigerian Army along the Auchi–Ikpeshi Road in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area of Edo State.
This was disclosed in a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, who explained that the vigilantes were travelling in a vehicle belonging to Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State at the time of their arrest.
Vigilantes Handed Over for Investigation
According to the statement, the suspects were formally handed over to the Kwara State Police Command by the Brigade Commander, 22 Armoured Brigade, Sobi Barracks, Ilorin, Brigadier General Rume, for investigation and profiling.
Following a thorough investigation, the police established that the individuals are legitimate members of a recognised vigilante group operating in collaboration with statutory security agencies in Kwara State as part of ongoing efforts to combat banditry and other criminal activities.
No Criminal Case Established
The Command noted that the vigilante members were exonerated of any criminal wrongdoing after investigations and were subsequently released to their respective leaders.
SP Ejire-Adeyemi reiterated the Police Command’s commitment to inter-agency collaboration and effective synergy with community-based security outfits, while urging all groups to operate strictly within the confines of the law.