Kwara Police Break Up Bandit Support Network, Arrest Key Suspect

The Kwara State Police Command has revealed that they have broken up a suspected bandit support network and arrested a key suspect in Ilorin, the state capital. This operation was carried out by the Violent Crime Response Unit.

In a statement released on Thursday by the state Police Public Relations Officer, SP Adetoun-Adeyemi, the arrest came after credible intelligence and careful surveillance.

"Acting on credible intelligence and sustained covert surveillance, operatives of the Unit apprehended a suspect in Ilorin whose activities are strongly linked to the movement and supply of materials suspected to be destined for criminal elements operating within forested enclaves and remote locations across the State."

"Items recovered in connection with the investigation include a large quantity of assorted cigarette brands and other rations believed to form part of a logistics chain servicing criminal groups."

The preliminary investigation shows that the suspect has a significant role in a larger network that provides support and resources to bandits and other criminals.

The Police also mentioned that photos found on the suspect’s mobile phone show him dressed in military camouflage while sitting on a Bajaj motorcycle. This evidence is helping their ongoing intelligence work.

The Command said they are continuing efforts to find and arrest other people linked to this network.

The Commissioner of Police for Kwara State, CP Adekimi Ojo, said the arrest is part of a wider strategy under the policing vision of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu.

He assured residents that the police are focused on not just tackling armed criminals but also on breaking down their support systems, collaborators, informants and suppliers.

"The Command remains resolute in denying criminal groups the resources, freedom of movement, and support networks required to operate, while sustaining pressure on all persons involved in aiding criminality in any form," the statement concluded.