Six members of a vigilante group from Kwara State, who were previously arrested by the Nigerian Army along the Auchi-Ikpeshi highway in Edo State, have been released following a comprehensive investigation by security authorities.

The Kwara State Police Command confirmed the development in a statement issued on Tuesday in Ilorin by the Public Relations Officer, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi. According to the police, the six men were travelling in a vehicle belonging to the Ifelodun Local Government Area when they were detained in the Akoko-Edo Local Government Area of Edo State.

The statement revealed that the Brigade Commander of the 22 Armoured Brigade, Sobi Barracks, Ilorin, Brigadier General N. N. Rume, formally handed the men over to the police for profiling and investigation.

"Following a thorough investigation, it was established that the individuals are legitimate members of a vigilante group operating in collaboration with recognised security agencies in the ongoing efforts to combat banditry and other forms of criminality," the command stated.

The police clarified that although the men were arrested last year, they have been cleared of any criminal involvement. Consequently, the vigilante members have been exonerated and released to their respective leaders.

The Commissioner of Police in Kwara State, Ojo Adekimi, reiterated the command's commitment to effective collaboration among security agencies and community-based security outfits, while urging all vigilante groups to operate strictly within the confines of the law.

He assured residents that the police command remains steadfast in its resolve to ensure the safety and security of lives and property across the state.