The Kwara State Police Command has ramped up security operations in Babanla, within Ifelodun Local Government Area, following a deadly weekend attack by suspected bandits that claimed five lives, including that of a senior police officer.

Commissioner of Police Adekimi Ojo confirmed the incident during a security assessment visit to the community on Sunday, accompanied by the State Director of the Department of State Services (DSS).

According to CP Ojo, the assault took place on August 8, 2025, when hundreds of armed attackers on motorcycles descended on Babanla, targeting the Divisional Police Headquarters and the local market, where they opened fire indiscriminately.

The attack resulted in the death of Assistant Superintendent of Police Adejumo Wasiu and four civilians.

Ojo commended the swift response of a joint security team comprising police officers, Nigerian Army personnel, vigilantes, and local hunters, whose coordinated efforts repelled the assailants, restored calm, and launched a large-scale manhunt for the perpetrators.

During the visit, the security delegation inspected key sites, including the damaged police station, the market, and the palace of the traditional ruler, Oba Yusuf Aliyu Alabi Arojojoye II, to assess the impact and reassure residents of the government's commitment to restoring safety.

Oba Arojojoye commended the prompt response of security agencies and vowed to collaborate with community leaders to discourage displacement, stressing the community's determination to remain united and resilient.

In a statement from Ilorin, Police Public Relations Officer SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi said the Commissioner of Police had ordered sustained armed patrols, continuous intelligence gathering, and the deployment of specialised tracking teams to monitor the area and track down the attackers.

She added that the DSS had committed to providing continuous intelligence support until all suspects are apprehended.