Kwara Police Smash Kidnapping Syndicate, Arrest Seven Suspects
Ilorin, Kwara State – June 10, 2026 — In a major breakthrough that has brought renewed hope to communities gripped by fear, the Kwara State Police Command has dismantled a dangerous kidnapping syndicate, arresting seven suspects and recovering an AK-47 rifle along with other firearms during intelligence-led operations.
The arrests followed weeks of coordinated efforts that began on 28th May 2026, when operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Squad responded to the abduction of a resident in the Agbeyangi area of Ilorin.
Acting on credible intelligence, the team launched a targeted operation that led to the arrest of Surajo Abubakar. His interrogation provided vital leads that unravelled the network.
Further operations resulted in the arrest of the alleged leader, Umar Yabani, also known as “Yabo,” along with Isah A. Sule and Umar Sani. During these raids, police recovered one AK-47 rifle and one pump-action gun.
Preliminary investigations linked the group to multiple kidnapping incidents across Ilorin East, Edu, Ifelodun, and neighbouring communities.
Determined to crush the entire network, the Command intensified its efforts. On 4th June 2026, in collaboration with the Forest Guard and local vigilante groups, officers carried out another operation in the forests of Edu and Ifelodun Local Government Areas.
Three more suspects — Bello Alhaji Maidabo (25), Shehu Malami (23), and Riskuwa Babuga (18) — were arrested near Tsaragi. A locally made single-barrel gun loaded with two live cartridges was also recovered.
For residents in affected areas, the news has come as a significant relief. Many communities in Kwara’s rural local governments have lived under the shadow of kidnappings for months, with some villages reportedly deserted due to repeated attacks.
The dismantling of this syndicate is being seen as a step toward restoring safety and allowing displaced families to consider returning home.
Commissioner of Police, CP Ojo Adekimi, described the operation as a direct reflection of the Inspector-General of Police’s directive to strengthen intelligence-led policing and dismantle criminal networks.
He praised the collaborative efforts of security agencies and local vigilantes, noting that such partnerships are crucial in the fight against kidnapping.
“The breakthrough reflects the operational directives and strategic vision of the Inspector-General of Police towards strengthening intelligence-led policing, dismantling criminal networks, and enhancing public safety,” CP Adekimi stated.
He urged members of the public to continue providing timely and actionable information to security agencies, emphasising that community support remains vital in the ongoing battle against crime.
All seven suspects are currently in police custody and are assisting investigators with information aimed at rescuing any remaining victims believed to still be in captivity and apprehending other fleeing members of the gang.
The Kwara State Police Command has assured residents of its unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property.
The successful operation sends a clear message that criminal syndicates operating in the state will be pursued relentlessly.
As investigations continue, the Command is calling on anyone with useful information to come forward.
In a state where fear has forced some communities to empty out, this latest success offers a glimmer of hope that normalcy can gradually return.
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