The operation, carried out by operatives of the Command's Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) in collaboration with personnel of the Okuta Divisional Police Headquarters, led to the arrest of two suspected bandits, the recovery of assault weapons and ammunition, and the apprehension of a suspected facilitator linked to the criminal network.
According to the Police Command, through a today's statement by its Spokesperson, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, the intelligence-led operation was executed on June 6, 2026, following credible information on the activities of criminal elements in the area. During a tactical raid on a suspected hideout in Okuta, Baruten Local Government Area, operatives arrested Bello Mohammed (28) and Abubakar Mohammed (25).
A search conducted at the hideout resulted in the recovery of two AK-47 rifles, 65 rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition, two cutlasses, two tube tyres allegedly used for restraining victims, firearm servicing materials, criminal charms, a dagger, one mobile phone, and a power bank.
Preliminary investigations linked the suspects to a criminal network allegedly involved in kidnapping, armed attacks, and other violent crimes across the Baruten axis and neighbouring communities.
Police sources disclosed that during interrogation, Abubakar Mohammed reportedly confessed to participating in the group's criminal activities and revealed that he had previously sustained injuries during an encounter with security operatives, leading to the loss of three fingers.
Further intelligence exploitation led to the arrest of Umoru Saliu (58) on June 7, 2026. Investigations indicate that the suspect allegedly provided accommodation and logistical support for members of the criminal network, including its leaders and other gang members who remain at large.
Reacting to the development, the Commissioner of Police, Kwara State Command, CP Ojo Adekimi, described the operation as a significant success in the Command's sustained offensive against violent crime.
He noted that the achievement reflects the effectiveness of the operational strategies and directives of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, aimed at strengthening internal security, combating violent crime, and dismantling criminal networks nationwide.
The Police Command stated that efforts are ongoing to track down and arrest fleeing members of the criminal syndicate and dismantle the remaining elements of the network. All suspects found culpable will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
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