RismadarVoice Reporters, June 9, 2026
The Kwara State Police Command has arrested two suspected bandits and recovered two AK-47 rifles, ammunition, and other incriminating items during an operation in Baruten Local Government Area of the state.
The Command’s spokesperson, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday, noting that the operation was carried out on June 6 by operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit in collaboration with officers from the Okuta Divisional Police Headquarters.
According to the statement, the suspects, identified as Bello Mohammed, 28, and Abubakar Mohammed, 25, were apprehended at a suspected criminal hideout in Okuta.
Items recovered during the raid included two AK-47 rifles, 65 rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition, two cutlasses, two tube tyres allegedly used to restrain victims, firearm maintenance materials, charms, a dagger, a mobile phone and a power bank.
Police investigations linked the suspects to a criminal syndicate allegedly involved in kidnapping, armed attacks and other violent crimes within Baruten and neighbouring communities.
During interrogation, Abubakar Mohammed reportedly confessed to participating in the group’s activities and revealed that he had previously lost three fingers after sustaining injuries during a confrontation with security operatives.
Further intelligence gathered during the investigation led to the arrest of a third suspect, Umoru Saliu, 58, on June 7. Police said he allegedly provided accommodation and logistical support to members of the criminal network, including gang leaders who remain at large.
Kwara State Commissioner of Police, Ojo Adekimi, described the operation as a significant breakthrough in the command’s fight against violent crime. He noted that the success aligns with the operational directives of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu.
The commissioner assured residents that efforts are ongoing to track down and arrest other members of the gang who escaped. He added that all suspects will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
