The Kwara State Police Command has stepped up security in Babanla, Ifelodun Local Government Area, following a deadly bandit attack that claimed five lives, including a senior police officer.
The Commissioner of Police, Adekimi Ojo, confirmed the incident on Sunday during a security assessment visit to the area alongside the State Director of the Department of State Services (DSS).
The attack happened on the night of August 8, 2025, when heavily armed bandits reportedly numbering in the hundreds and riding motorcycles invaded Babanla. Their targets included the Divisional Police Headquarters and the local market, where they opened fire on civilians and security personnel.
Tragically, Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Adejumo Wasiu and four civilians lost their lives in the attack.
CP Ojo said a swift response by a joint security team made up of police officers, soldiers, local vigilantes, and hunters helped repel the attackers, secure the area, and begin a search for the suspects.
The security team also visited key locations, including the damaged police station, the market, and the palace of the community’s traditional ruler, Oba Yusuf Aliyu Alabi Arojojoye II, to assess the level of destruction and assure residents of their safety.
Oba Arojojoye praised the quick action by the security forces and urged the community to remain united. He pledged to work with local leaders to prevent displacement and maintain peace.
In a separate statement from Ilorin, Police spokesperson SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi said the police have launched armed patrols, intelligence operations, and deployed tracking teams to locate and arrest the attackers. She added that the DSS is also providing intelligence support for the ongoing manhunt.