Kwara Police Arrest Kidnap Leader, Seize Two Rifles

The Kwara State Police has arrested a suspected kidnap gang leader and recovered two AK-47 rifles in Baruten Local Government Area. This was part of an operation based on intelligence.

The police carried out this operation through the Violent Crime Response Unit. They worked with operatives from the Okuta Divisional Headquarters after receiving reliable information about criminal activities in the area.

A statement from the police spokesperson, Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, said the operation happened on June 1, 2026. It took place during a routine raid in the Tabida area of Okuta. Several people suspected of being involved in crime were arrested.

The statement said, "The Kwara State Police Command, through its Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), has recorded a major operational breakthrough in its ongoing offensive against kidnapping and other violent crimes across the State."

"On June 1, 2026, operatives attached to Okuta Divisional Headquarters, acting on credible intelligence, apprehended a group of suspicious persons believed to be involved in criminal activities during a routine raid operation within the Tabida area of Okuta, Baruten Local Government Area."

"Preliminary investigation by the VCRU led to the identification of one Umar Abubakar, alias ‘Manti’, as the leader of a kidnapping syndicate believed to have been responsible for a series of kidnapping incidents and related violent crimes within parts of Kwara North," SP Ejire-Adeyemi said.

The police said that further efforts based on intelligence led to the recovery of two AK-47 rifles with fully loaded magazines. These weapons are believed to have been used by the gang in their operations.

"The recovery represents a significant disruption of the group’s operational capability and a major step towards restoring public safety within the affected areas."

The statement added, "The suspects are currently in police custody and are providing investigators with useful information that will aid in identifying and apprehending other members of the criminal network."

Kwara State Commissioner of Police, Adekimi Ojo, praised the VCRU officers and their support teams for their professionalism and teamwork in making this arrest.

The police chief also assured residents that they are increasing intelligence-led operations across key areas in the state. They are deploying more resources to ensure the safety of lives and property.

The police confirmed that the suspects will face charges in court once investigations are complete. They are continuing efforts to break down the larger criminal network in the region.