The Kwara State Police Command has recorded a major breakthrough in its fight against kidnapping and violent crimes following the arrest of a suspected gang leader and the recovery of two AK-47 rifles in Baruten Local Government Area.
The operation, carried out by the Command’s Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), is being described as a significant step towards dismantling criminal networks operating in parts of Kwara North.
According to a statement issued on Wednesday by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, operatives attached to the Okuta Divisional Headquarters arrested a group of suspected criminals during a routine raid in the Tabida area of Okuta on June 1, 2026.
The statement noted that the suspects were subsequently transferred to the VCRU for further investigation and profiling.
Police investigations reportedly led to the identification of one Umar Abubakar, popularly known as “Manti”, who is believed to be the leader of a kidnapping syndicate linked to several abduction cases and other violent crimes in Okuta, Ilesha-Baruba, Tabida, Taberu and neighbouring communities.
“Preliminary investigation by the VCRU led to the identification of one Umar Abubakar, alias ‘Manti’, as the leader of a kidnapping syndicate believed to have been responsible for a series of kidnapping incidents and related violent crimes within parts of Kwara North,” the statement said.
The Command disclosed that further intelligence-led operations led to the recovery of two AK-47 rifles with fully loaded magazines allegedly used by the gang in carrying out criminal activities.
Police described the recovery as a major blow to the group’s operations and an important achievement in ongoing efforts to improve security across the affected communities.
“Further intelligence-driven investigation resulted in the recovery of two AK-47 rifles with fully loaded magazines believed to have been used by the criminal gang in carrying out their operations. 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 added.
The suspects are currently in police custody and are said to be assisting investigators with information that could lead to the arrest of other members of the syndicate.
The Commissioner of Police in Kwara State commended officers of the Violent Crime Response Unit and other supporting formations for their professionalism and commitment, which contributed to the success of the operation.
The Command also reassured residents of its determination to sustain intelligence-driven operations across the state.
“The Command further assures residents that intelligence-led operations have been intensified across strategic locations, while all available resources are being deployed to ensure the continued safety of lives and property throughout the State,” the statement said.
Police said investigations are ongoing and that the suspects will be charged in court upon the conclusion of the probe.
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