The Kwara State Police Command has apprehended a suspected member of a kidnapping syndicate, Sanda Aliyu, over an alleged plot to purchase an AK-47 rifle for N1.6 million in the Kaiama Local Government Area.
Aliyu was arrested by the Anti-Kidnapping Section on August 3, 2026, following credible intelligence that he was negotiating with a man identified as Aliyu Mohammed—who remains at large—for the acquisition of the firearm.
According to a statement issued Thursday by the state Police Public Relations Officer, Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, detectives acted swiftly on the intelligence and detained Aliyu before the weapon could be delivered.
During interrogation, Aliyu reportedly confessed to his role in the attempted arms transaction and revealed that N1.6 million had already been paid toward the purchase of the rifle. He further admitted that his intention in acquiring the weapon was to elevate his status to ‘Boss’ within his current kidnapping gang, with plans to eventually form and lead his own group.
The police spokesperson added that investigators are working to verify the transaction, establish the identities of other individuals involved, and unravel the full scope of the criminal network.
The ongoing investigation is expected to yield further leads into the attempted arms acquisition and expose broader criminal activities linked to the gang.
The arrest comes amid intensified security operations by law enforcement agencies in parts of Kwara State, following a spike in kidnappings and violent crimes in several communities.
Reacting to the development, the Commissioner of Police in Kwara State, Ojo Adekimi, reassured residents that the command would maintain its intelligence-driven operations against criminal elements statewide. He acknowledged the strategic direction of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, and pledged to continue deploying all available legal and operational resources to safeguard the public.
There will be no respite in the ongoing offensive against criminal elements, the Commissioner stated, adding that law enforcement efforts would persist until all communities are adequately secured and residents can live without fear.
Aliyu remains in police custody as investigations continue, while efforts are underway to apprehend Mohammed and identify other individuals connected to the attempted arms deal.
