A joint team of police operatives and local vigilantes has neutralised a suspected bandit during an exchange of gunfire at Adekanbi Village, near Bode-Saadu in the Moro Local Government Area of Kwara State.

In a statement issued on Friday, the state Police Public Relations Officer, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, said the operation formed part of ongoing, heightened security efforts to flush out criminal elements across the state.

According to findings on Wednesday, the confrontation followed a tactical mission triggered by intelligence reports indicating that bandits had taken up position on a fortified hilltop in the area.

Ejire-Adeyemi explained that the security team came under heavy fire upon arrival, prompting what she described as a swift and superior counter-attack.

“The overwhelming response forced the criminals to flee their position, some of them with suspected gunshot injuries.

“A post-operation sweep led to the recovery of a neutralised suspect, one AK-49 rifle, and 32 rounds of live ammunition,” she said.

The spokesperson noted that the successful operation reflects the strategic direction of the state Commissioner of Police, CP Adekimi Ojo, and aligns with the national security priorities of the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun.

“This successful operation shows the command’s enhanced kinetic capability and reinforced rapid-response strategy under the leadership of IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun,” she added.

The command assured residents that aggressive operations would continue across all identified flashpoints to sustain peace and security statewide.