Adekimi Ojo, Commissioner of Police in Kwara State, has confirmed the arrest of 42 illegal miners following the abduction of Oba Salman Olátúnjí Aweda, the traditional ruler of Olayinka community in Ifelodun Local Government Area. The incident occurred on Saturday evening after the monarch received royalty payments from miners earlier that day. Armed terrorists broke into his palace, forcibly took him from a room, and demanded the money he had been given. The monarch handed over the funds and was taken away along with his brother, who was also abducted.
The police responded swiftly, deploying drones and other resources to track the suspects. Within hours, 42 illegal miners were apprehended in the community. However, Commissioner Ojo stated that it is still unclear whether the abductors were among those arrested. Investigations are ongoing to determine the full extent of the involvement of the suspects and to locate the missing monarch. All 42 individuals are currently being held at the police headquarters in Ilorin for questioning.
During the abduction, the monarch’s brother, who was barefoot and without sandals, reportedly told the bandits he was too exhausted to continue. He pleaded with them, saying he would rather be killed than go further. Instead of harming him, the terrorists tied him to a tree and left him behind as they took the monarch away. This detail has raised alarm among residents and security officials, highlighting the brutal nature of the attack.
The abductors reportedly contacted the community later that day, demanding N400 million for the monarch’s release. The demand has intensified fears of insecurity in the Kwara South Senatorial District, especially in rural areas where illegal mining activities are rampant. Abdulrasheed Femi Yusuf, Chairman of Ifelodun Local Government Area, confirmed the abduction during a community meeting on Saturday. He described the incident as unfortunate and emphasized that the local government is working closely with security agencies to ensure the monarch’s safe return.
The abduction has sparked widespread concern among residents, who are calling for stronger security measures to prevent similar incidents. The police have reassured the public that they are doing everything possible to resolve the situation. The case underscores the growing threat posed by armed bandits and illegal miners in the region, and the need for coordinated efforts to restore peace and protect traditional leaders. The outcome of the ongoing investigation will be closely watched as it may set a precedent for handling future abductions in the state.
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