Kwara Police arrest suspected k!dnap kingpin, recover two AK-47 R!fles
Kwara Police arrest suspected kidnap kingpin, recover two AK-47 Rifles
The Kwara State Police Command has announced a breakthrough in its fight against kidnapping and violent crime, following the arrest of a suspected gang leader and the recovery of two AK-47 rifles.
The Command’s spokesperson, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, disclosed this in a statement on Sunday, noting that the operation was carried out by the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU).
According to the statement, the arrest followed a raid by operatives attached to the Okuta Divisional Headquarters on June 1, 2026, in the Tabida area of Okuta, Baruten Local Government Area.
The operation, based on credible intelligence, led to the apprehension of several suspects believed to be involved in criminal activities.
The suspects were subsequently transferred to the VCRU for further investigation, which led to the identification of one Umar Abubakar, also known as “Manti,” as the alleged leader of a kidnapping syndicate operating in parts of Kwara North.
Police said the syndicate was responsible for a series of kidnapping incidents and other violent crimes in communities including Okuta, Ilesha-Baruba, Tabida/Taberu, and surrounding areas.
Further intelligence-led operations by the unit resulted in the recovery of two AK-47 rifles with fully loaded magazines, believed to have been used by the group in carrying out their activities.
“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 said.
The Command added that the suspects are currently in custody and are assisting investigators with information that could lead to the arrest of other members of the criminal network.
The Commissioner of Police commended the officers involved in the operation for their professionalism and resilience, assuring residents that efforts have been intensified to tackle crime across the state.
The police further stated that the suspects would be charged in court upon the conclusion of investigations.
