Kwara police bust suspected bandits logistics network, arrest key suspect

Operatives of the Kwara State police command have smashed a suspected bandits logistics network with the key suspect arrested in a major crackdown by the violent crime response unit of the command.

The key suspect was arrested in Ilorin, the state capital, according to the Police Public Relations Officer of the command, SP Adetoun Ejire Adeyemi, in Ilorin on Thursday.

‎She said, “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.

‎”Preliminary investigation indicates that the suspect plays a strategic support role within a broader network responsible for providing sustenance and other forms of assistance to bandits and allied criminal elements. 

‎”During the course of the investigation, photographs recovered from the suspect’s mobile device showed him dressed in military camouflage and seated on a Bajaj motorcycle, further strengthening intelligence leads regarding his suspected association with criminal elements.

“Efforts are ongoing to identify and apprehend other collaborators connected to the network,” the spokesperson added.

‎State Commissioner of Police, Adekimi Ojo, reassured residents that ongoing security operations across the state are increasingly focused on targeting not only armed criminals but also the logistical structures, collaborators, informants, and suppliers that sustain their activities. 

‎He vowed that 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.