Ilorin – The Kwara State Police Command has reported a series of arrests in recent weeks, signaling a renewed crackdown on violent crime across the state. Commissioner of Police, Adekomi Ojo, said the operations reflect the Command’s commitment to intelligence-led policing and public safety.
According to CP Ojo, “Our officers have intensified operations, strengthened tactical deployments, and worked closely with other security agencies to dismantle criminal networks threatening lives and property in Kwara State. We are determined to protect our citizens and restore confidence in public security.”
Among the notable arrests, a 15-year-old, Gobri Yusuf, was taken into custody for the killing of a female resident in Ilorin. Investigations revealed that the suspect attacked the victim with household items after failed attempts to poison her. CP Ojo stated, “This case is a stark reminder of how even young individuals can be drawn into violent acts, and we are committed to ensuring justice is served.”
In Ifelodun Local Government Area, three suspected kidnappers were apprehended following the abduction of construction workers. Using digital tracking of a victim’s stolen phone, police traced the suspects and recovered key evidence. In Oro-Ago, ten suspected kidnappers, including a mechanic and logistics operatives, were arrested, and ten motorcycles were seized. “Our intelligence-led approach allowed us to preempt criminal plans before they could endanger lives,” CP Ojo noted.
Further operations led to the arrest of Awawu Maliki Bodo, who assisted investigators in tracking notorious kidnappers reportedly armed with firearms. In Patigi, police intercepted Zubairu Abubakar and two others in possession of a locally fabricated revolver and live ammunition. “These arrests demonstrate our commitment to rooting out firearms and preventing violent crimes before they escalate,” the police chief said.
Cult-related crimes were also targeted. Three suspected members of secret cults were arrested in connection with the fatal shooting of a man in Ilorin. The police recovered firearms, charms, and cult insignia. CP Ojo emphasized, “Our anti-cultism unit is relentless in confronting cult activities that endanger our communities.”
Other arrests included Sofiullahi Ibrahim Idowu, a former cult leader involved in criminal conspiracy and attempted homicide, and Noah Olorunyomi, accused of fatally shooting one victim and wounding another in Erin-Ile. Both suspects remain in custody as investigations continue.
CP Ojo concluded, “These successes underscore our officers’ professionalism and courage. Security is a collective responsibility, and we urge residents to continue providing credible intelligence. We will sustain these operations and ensure that lawbreakers face the full force of the law.”
The Kwara State Police Command reaffirmed its alignment with the reform-driven vision of Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Disu, emphasizing operational efficiency, strengthened security structures, and the protection of lives and property across Nigeria.