The Kwara State Police Command has arrested six suspected kidnappers and recovered firearms following a coordinated intelligence-driven operation in Baruten Local Government Area, marking a significant breakthrough in the state’s fight against kidnapping and armed robbery. The operation, which unfolded after a kidnapping incident was reported on April 23, 2026, led to the safe release of the victim and the arrest of key members of the criminal syndicate. The police also recovered two locally made rifles and six mobile phones as evidence, underscoring the seriousness of the crime and the effectiveness of the security response.
The incident began when Isaq J. ‘M’ of Boriya Village via Okuta reported being kidnapped at around 12:30 PM on April 23, 2026. The suspects had demanded a ransom of ₦50,000,000 from his family. Upon receiving the report, the Kwara State Police Command swiftly activated a manhunt, deploying intelligence and operational units to track down the abductors. The coordinated efforts led to the victim’s safe release before further arrests were made.
On April 30, 2026, at approximately 8:15 PM, Mohammed Shede ‘M’ of Boriya Village was arrested in connection with the crime. During interrogation, he confessed to providing critical intelligence to two key gang members identified as “Smalley” and “Borugujo,” which enabled the abduction of the victim from his farm. His confession opened the door for deeper investigations into the syndicate’s operations.
Further investigations led to the arrest of four additional suspects: Abubakar Aliu ‘M’, identified as the gang’s armourer; Abu Sonkpia ‘M’; Saliu Yakubu ‘M’; and Sanni Sakariyau ‘M’, all residents of Boriya Village. These individuals confessed to their roles in the kidnapping and also admitted to participating in an armed robbery attack on another resident, Muhammed Manu, from the same community. The confessions and recovered exhibits have strengthened the case against the suspects.
The police have confirmed that efforts are ongoing to apprehend the remaining fleeing members of the syndicate, including “Smalley,” “Borugujo,” and two other accomplices currently at large. The command has urged the public to remain vigilant and continue providing credible information to aid ongoing security operations. The arrests highlight the police’s commitment to combating kidnapping and other violent crimes in Kwara State.
This operation sends a strong message to criminal elements that law enforcement is actively working to restore security. As investigations continue, authorities remain focused on dismantling criminal networks and ensuring justice for victims. The successful recovery of the victim and the arrest of key suspects demonstrate the effectiveness of intelligence-led policing in Nigeria’s evolving security landscape.
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