Kwara Police Arrest Suspected Kidnapping Kingpin, Seize Ammunition

The Kwara State Police Command has recorded a major breakthrough in its anti-kidnapping drive, arresting a man believed to be a key member of a kidnapping gang operating in parts of the state.

Dependable NG reports that the suspect, identified as Aliu Abubakar, was apprehended on Friday, December 5, at the Oro-Ago Motor Park in Ifelodun Local Government Area, following actionable intelligence provided by members of the community.

Police sources disclosed that Abubakar initially claimed he was on his way to visit a relative, but inconsistencies in his story raised suspicion. Further checks of his mobile phone revealed damning digital evidence, including pictures of him brandishing an AK-47 rifle and posing with other armed men identified as his associates.

Investigators also found photos showing bundles of cash, which the police believe are proceeds from ransom payments collected from victims of the syndicate. During questioning, Abubakar reportedly admitted to taking part in several kidnapping operations and confirmed that the money seen in the pictures was ransom shared among members of the gang.

In a related operation, police also intercepted and arrested a courier linked to the same criminal network along the Gbugbu–Patigi road. The courier was transporting 100 rounds of live ammunition intended for the kidnappers operating in the forest hideouts.

The police command confirmed that investigations are currently ongoing, and the valuable intelligence supplied by Abubakar is expected to lead to more arrests of arms merchants, financiers, and collaborators supporting the criminal ecosystem in the state.