The Kwara State Police Command has arrested two suspected bandits and recovered two AK-47 rifles, live ammunition, and other incriminating items during a security operation in Baruten Local Government Area of the state.
The command’s spokesperson, Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, disclosed this in a statement issued on Tuesday, noting that the operation was carried out by operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit in collaboration with personnel from the Okuta Divisional Police Headquarters.
According to the police, the operation took place on Saturday and led to the arrest of 28-year-old Bello Mohammed and 25-year-old Abubakar Mohammed at a suspected criminal hideout in Okuta, Baruten LGA.
Inside Kwara State:
Panic In Kwara Community As Gunmen Abduct Emir’s Wives, Residents, Set Palace Ablaze
Bandits Abduct Six in Late-Night Kwara Village Attack
Kwara CP Declares End to Impunity, Warns Officers Against Misconduct
Three Killed, 10 Buildings Burnt in Kwara Communal Clash
Silence From Kidnappers Sparks Fears Over Fate of 15 Kwara Worshippers
Items recovered from the hideout included two AK-47 rifles, 65 rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition, two cutlasses, tube tyres allegedly used to restrain kidnapping victims, firearm maintenance materials, criminal charms, a dagger, a mobile phone, and a power bank.
The police said preliminary investigations linked the suspects to a criminal network allegedly responsible for kidnapping, armed attacks, and other violent crimes across the Baruten axis and neighbouring communities.
During interrogation, one of the suspects, Abubakar Mohammed, reportedly confessed to participating in the group’s criminal activities. He also revealed that he had previously sustained injuries during a confrontation with security operatives, which resulted in the loss of three fingers.
Further intelligence gathered during the investigation led to the arrest of a 58-year-old suspect, Umoru Saliu, on June 7, 2026. Police investigations revealed that Saliu allegedly provided shelter and support for members of the criminal gang, including its leaders and other suspects who remain at large.
The Commissioner of Police in Kwara State, Ojo Adekimi, described the operation as a major breakthrough in the command’s ongoing fight against violent crime. He said the success reflects the operational directives of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu.
Adekimi assured residents that efforts were ongoing to track down and arrest other fleeing members of the criminal network. He added that all suspects currently in custody would be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
About the Author
