Major Security Breakthrough in Kwara State
Security agencies in Kwara State have achieved a significant breakthrough in the fight against banditry with the arrest of a weapons specialist and several suppliers who provided essential items to criminals operating in forest hideouts.
The Commissioner of Police, Adekimi Ojo, made this disclosure on Friday, November 21, 2025, during a press briefing following the State Security Council meeting held at the Government House in Ilorin.
Key Arrests and Confessions
According to Commissioner Ojo, the arrests include a man from Makurdi, Benue State, who confessed to being the primary weapons technician for bandits operating across Kwara State. This individual was responsible for fixing and maintaining firearms used by the criminals in their operations.
Additionally, security forces apprehended several other suspects accused of supplying the bandits with food, fuel, drugs, and other essential commodities that sustained their operations in remote forest locations.
The police chief confirmed that recent air interdictions have successfully dislodged kidnappers from multiple hideouts, particularly in the Ifelodun area, with the security council calling for sustained bombardment of identified criminal enclaves.
Enhanced Security Measures and Deployments
The security meeting revealed that Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun has deployed four tactical units to Kwara State to combat emerging threats. These include:
- Special Weapons and Tactics Squad (SWAT)
- Intelligence Response Team (IRT)
- Special Intervention Squad
- Special Tactical Squad
Commissioner Ojo commended the military, police, and Department of State Services for implementing new deployments in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's directives to enhance security across the state.
Security Council Concerns and Recommendations
The State Security Council expressed serious concern about the damaging role of social media in the fight against insecurity, particularly regarding the dissemination of sensitive security information that could endanger operations and citizens.
The council lamented how unregulated social media reports expose citizens to greater danger, especially when ransom demands and operational details are publicized.
In response to the security situation, the council approved several measures:
- Intensified joint patrols across the state ahead of the Christmas season
- Stronger security presence in vulnerable areas
- Endorsement of government security measures affecting schools in high-risk locations
- Call for sustained bombardment of identified criminal hideouts
The meeting also received updates on ongoing efforts to track perpetrators and rescue victims of the Eruku church attack, with security commanders providing progress reports.
Public Safety Advisory
The security council issued important safety recommendations for residents, urging them to:
- Avoid night farming activities
- Limit movements that may expose them to harm
- Promptly report suspicious activities to security agencies, government officials, and traditional rulers
- Remain vigilant while security agencies work toward the safe return of abducted girls
The council observed a minute of silence in honor of victims of the Eruku CAC attack and extended condolences to their families and the affected community.
Commissioner Ojo emphasized that the recent arrests and security measures demonstrate the government's commitment to restoring peace and security in Kwara State, while calling for continued public cooperation with security agencies.
