The Kwara State Police Command has debunked rumours of an alleged armed robbery attack at Eleyin village along the Ilorin-Omu-Aran road on Sunday.

In a statement issued on Monday by the Command's Police Public Relations Officer, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, the police clarified that no such armed robbery incident occurred at any point on the Ilorin-Omu-Aran road on Sunday.

The statement explained that the situation stemmed from a misunderstanding between a vehicle owner, whose vehicle had broken down on the road, and some local youths who approached him demanding a stipend. This led to confusion, which was subsequently misrepresented as an armed robbery attack.

“The Kwara State Police Command is aware of a false report in circulation by mischief makers whose intent is to ridicule and undermine the efforts of the command in combating crime and criminal elements.

“At about 1800hrs of February 09, 2025, the DPO Oke-Onigbin received a distress call from Ibrahim Sai 'M' of Eleyin village, reporting an alleged armed robbery.

“Immediately, a formidable team comprising men from Acpol Omu-aran and Oke-Onigbin divisions was deployed. On arrival, it was discovered that an incident stemmed from a misunderstanding between a vehicle owner and some youths demanding “owo ilè” (land money) after the vehicle broke down by the roadside.

“This fracas was mistaken for an armed robbery by other road users and bystanders. On sighting police operatives, the unarmed youths fled the scene. no robbery occurred, and the area remains very calm”, the statement said.

The police however said that in case of emergencies, people should call the Kwara police command hotline 0812 527 5046 and 0703 206 9501.

“The Kwara police command urges the public to refrain from spreading unverified information and assures its continued commitment to securing lives and properties of kwarans”, the police warned.