A suspected bandit was killed on Saturday, May 30, by an angry mob in Ilesha-Baruba, Baruten Local Government Area of Kwara State. The deceased was allegedly part of a gang that killed a popular Islamic cleric, Alfa Iliasu. The incident sparked outrage among residents, leading to the lynching of one of the suspected attackers.
Mob Pursues Attackers After Cleric's Death
According to eyewitness accounts, three suspects were involved in the attack on the cleric at his residence. Residents pursued the suspects shortly after the incident and apprehended two of them. One suspect was beaten to death by the crowd before security operatives could intervene.
An eyewitness said: "The residents saw the three suspected bandits and chased them. They got two of them. The angry mob killed one of the suspects before the police could stop them. The second suspect was rescued by the police, while the third suspect escaped."
Cleric Succumbs to Injuries
Sources in the community said the attackers struck Alfa Iliasu on the head with a cutlass, leaving him with severe injuries. He was rushed to a hospital but died before receiving treatment. A community source noted: "He was seriously injured during the attack. They rushed him to the hospital immediately, but unfortunately he died before doctors could attend to him."
The late Alfa Iliasu was widely known across Baruten Local Government Area and neighbouring communities for his Islamic teachings and spiritual activities. His death has thrown the community into mourning, with residents describing him as a respected religious scholar whose influence extended beyond Ilesha-Baruba.
Suspect in Custody, Manhunt Continues
One suspect is currently in police custody after officers rescued him from the mob. The third suspect reportedly escaped during the pursuit and remains at large. His remains were laid to rest on Saturday at the Ilesha-Baruba Muslim Cemetery in accordance with Islamic rites.
Previous Attacks in Kwara
In a related development, some Christian worshippers in Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State suspended church services following repeated attacks by armed assailants. The latest incident occurred during a night vigil at Ori-Oke Ajaiye, where gunmen killed three worshippers and abducted 15 others. This forced residents to flee and temporarily shut down several churches in the affected communities. Kwara State Police Command confirmed the attack and launched a tactical rescue operation involving intelligence and special units to track the abductors and rescue the victims.
