Kwara Police Arrest Two Bandits, Seize AK-47 Rifles

The Kwara State Police has arrested two suspected bandits. They also recovered two AK-47 rifles and other items. An alleged facilitator linked to a crime group in Baruten Local Government Area was also caught.

This information came from a statement released on Tuesday by the police public relations officer, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi.

The operation took place on June 6, 2026. Officers from the Command’s Violent Crime Response Unit worked with personnel from the Okuta Divisional Police Headquarters.

During the operation, they arrested Bello Mohammed, 28, and Abubakar Mohammed, 25, at a suspected hideout in Okuta, Baruten LGA.

The police recovered several items from the hideout. These included two AK-47 rifles, 65 rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition, two cutlasses, and two tube tyres believed to be used for restraining victims. They also found firearm servicing materials, criminal charms, a dagger, a mobile phone, and a power bank.

“Preliminary investigation linked the suspects to a criminal network involved in kidnapping, armed attacks, and other violent crimes in Baruten and nearby areas.

“During questioning, Abubakar Mohammed admitted he was part of the group and said he had been injured in a previous clash with security forces, losing three fingers in the process.”

The investigation also led to the arrest of Umoru Saliu, 58, on June 7, 2026. The police found that Saliu allegedly provided shelter and support to members of the criminal group, including its leaders and other gang members who are still on the run.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Ojo Adekimi, called the operation a major success in their fight against violent crime. He added that it shows the commitment of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu.

He mentioned that they are still working to catch the other members of the gang. All suspects will face charges in court after the investigations are finished.