The Kwara State Police Command have commenced a manhunt for individuals linked to a deadly mob attack that left two people dead and several properties destroyed in Ilesha Baruba, Baruten Local Government Area of the state.

The Command said the incident, which occurred on May 30, involved acts of violence, arson and unlawful killings, describing the development as a serious violation of the law. It pledged to identify and prosecute everyone found culpable.

In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, the crisis was traced to an altercation between an unidentified Fulani man and an Islamic cleric, Mohammed Ilyasu. Both men reportedly suffered severe machete injuries during the confrontation.

The police said the injured men were taken to a medical facility for treatment. However, Ilyasu was pronounced dead on arrival, while the other victim later died while receiving care

According to the statement, the situation escalated when a group of youths allegedly stormed the hospital, removed the body of the deceased Fulani man and set it on fire.

The mob was also accused of attacking another individual passing through the area and burning him to death.

The unrest further resulted in the destruction of about 10 buildings belonging to members of the Fulani community, including the residence of the Ardo Fulani, Alhaji Hassan.

Following reports of the violence, security operatives comprising police officers and military personnel were deployed to the community to restore calm and prevent the disturbance from spreading.

The Command said peace had since been restored in the area, adding that security presence had been reinforced to maintain order and protect residents.

Reacting to the incident, the Commissioner of Police, Ojo Adekimi, condemned the attacks, describing them as unlawful and unacceptable. He stressed that no person or group has the right to resort to self-help or take the law into their own hands under any circumstance.

Adekimi assured residents that a thorough investigation had been launched and that all those responsible for the killings, destruction of property and other criminal acts would be brought to justice.

He also appealed to members of the public to remain peaceful, refrain from actions capable of inflaming ethnic tensions and allow security agencies to carry out their duties.

The police reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the state while ensuring accountability for those involved in the incident.