The Kwara State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of a suspected bandit in Kaiama Local Government Area as part of intensified efforts to curb criminal activities in the state.

The command disclosed in a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Adetoun Adeyemi, that the arrest was made during a coordinated patrol operation involving multiple security outfits.

He stated that at about 0800 hours, a joint patrol team comprising Police operatives, the National Forest Guards, and members of the Kaiama Vigilante Group, while on routine patrol in Nanu, intercepted and arrested one Mallami Abubakar, a 20-year-old male from Isanlu Dankuturu in Kogi State.

The command further revealed details of the suspect’s alleged movements prior to his arrest, noting that preliminary findings pointed to possible links with criminal elements operating within and outside the state.

“Preliminary investigation and interrogation revealed that the suspect had allegedly been contacted on March 30, 2026, by a friend identified as ‘Babi’ (surname unknown) from Babana Village in Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State.”

It added that the invitation extended to the suspect suggested a deeper connection to organised criminal networks operating in parts of the North-Central region.

“The individual reportedly invited him to travel to Farinsuni via Baruten Local Government Area with the intention of joining a group believed to be affiliated with ISWAP/Lakurawa before his arrest,” the statement added.

The command assured residents that the suspect remains in custody while further investigations are being carried out to uncover the full scope of the alleged criminal network.

“The suspect is currently in police custody, and a full investigation is ongoing to ascertain the extent of his involvement and to apprehend other individuals connected to the case.”

Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police, Adekimi Ojo, reaffirmed the command’s commitment to maintaining peace and security across the state, urging residents to support security agencies with timely information.

Ojo also called on members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious movements or activities to the nearest security agency.

The development comes against the backdrop of heightened security concerns in Kaiama Local Government Area following a deadly attack in February when armed assailants reportedly invaded Woro and Nuku communities, killing over 200 residents and abducting no fewer than 176 others, including women and children.

SOURCE: PUNCH