A major security crackdown in Kwara has led to the arrest of 19 suspected kidnappers, cultists and armed crime suspects as police intensify operations to dismantle criminal networks across the state.
The Kwara State Police Command said the suspects were picked up during intelligence-driven operations targeting kidnapping gangs, cult groups and illegal firearms possession.
Commissioner of Police Adekimi Ojo, who addressed journalists in Ilorin, said the operations followed increased tactical deployments and collaboration with other security agencies to curb violent crime.
Among the cases highlighted was the arrest of a 15-year-old suspect over the alleged killing of a woman in her home earlier this year. Police said the teenager allegedly attacked the victim with household items while she was bathing and later contacted her husband, who discovered the body.
In another operation, three suspects were arrested over the kidnapping of construction workers along the Owu Falls Road in Ifelodun Local Government Area after investigators tracked a stolen phone belonging to one of the victims.
A separate raid in Oro-Ago community also led to the arrest of 10 suspected kidnappers and the recovery of 10 motorcycles believed to have been used for criminal activities.
Police further arrested a 23-year-old woman during a raid on the home of a fleeing kidnapping suspect where a revolver and live cartridges were recovered. Officers also intercepted three suspects during a stop-and-search operation in Patigi with a locally made firearm and ammunition.
In Ilorin, three suspected cult members were arrested over the killing of a 28-year-old man during a cult clash, while another suspected cult leader was apprehended after allegedly pointing a gun at a police officer.
Police also confirmed the arrest of a suspect linked to the killing of a farmer at a cashew plantation in Erin-Ile.
The police commissioner said the suspects would be charged to court after investigations and urged residents to continue sharing credible information with security agencies to help combat crime.
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