At least one person was killed on Friday when suspected cultists clashed at the densely populated Ilorin Central Market (Oja Oba) in Ilorin, Kwara State.

Witnesses said rival groups engaged in a daylight gun battle in the busy market, sending traders, motorists and passersby scrambling for safety.

One of the suspects was reportedly killed during the clash. His body was later seen lying in a pool of blood with a gun beside him when our correspondent visited the scene.

The incident, which occurred a few minutes before noon, triggered panic among petty traders who had displayed their wares amid the heavy human and vehicular traffic that usually characterises commercial activities in the market.

The sound of gunshots near the area where military and police operatives were stationed to enforce market setback regulations further heightened the panic.

Within moments, the market, which had earlier been bustling with activity, descended into confusion as people fled in different directions to avoid being caught in the crossfire.

Motorists and passersby heading toward Emir Road, Ita Ajia and the Gambari area quickly made detours to escape the scene.

Several traders were seen hurriedly packing their goods and running for safety, while others took cover inside nearby shops and enclosed stalls.

Police operatives stationed in the market immediately moved in and pursued some of the fleeing suspects.

During the operation, one of the suspects, dressed in white native attire and carrying a small fashion bag around his neck, was apprehended by security operatives.

He was subsequently taken to the C Division Police Station.

The identity of the deceased could not be immediately ascertained as of the time of filing this report on Friday afternoon.

Police officers later evacuated the body from the scene in a Hilux patrol vehicle.

The Kwara State Police Command Public Relations Officer, Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, confirmed the incident.

She said an investigation had commenced and assured that those involved in the clash would be brought to justice.