The Kwara State Police Command has firmly denied social media reports claiming that suspected Boko Haram members were apprehended in Ilorin metropolis, describing the allegations as entirely false and misleading.
Read more: Police Deny Arrest of Boko Haram Suspects in KwaraIn a statement released on Wednesday by the Command’s spokesperson, Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, and made available to The PUNCH, the police clarified that no Boko Haram suspects had been arrested anywhere in Kwara State.
“The Kwara State Police Command categorically debunks the misleading information circulating on social media, which alleges that operatives arrested a group of Boko Haram suspects within Ilorin metropolis. No such arrests have been made anywhere in the state. The report is unfounded, misleading, and capable of causing unnecessary fear and panic among residents,” the statement read in part.
The police explained that, contrary to the rumours, officers from the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) had only intercepted a truck carrying Fulani travellers during a routine, intelligence-led surveillance operation in Ilorin on Tuesday night. In accordance with standard security procedures, both the vehicle and its occupants were thoroughly searched and profiled. No weapons, incriminating items, or security threats were found.
According to the statement, the travellers, who were en route to Jigawa State, were allowed to continue their journey after their identities and other relevant information were properly documented. The police emphasised that the operation was conducted professionally and transparently to ensure public safety.
Meanwhile, the command announced the arrest of three suspected armed robbers and vandals during a separate intelligence-led operation along the Asa Dam/Dangote Road axis of Ilorin. Acting on credible intelligence following residents’ complaints about criminal activity in the area, VCRU operatives responded swiftly and apprehended three suspects linked to the vandalisation of public infrastructure and armed robbery.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects are believed to be part of a larger criminal network operating in parts of Ilorin metropolis. Items recovered include two locally made pistols, pliers, and various suspected hard drugs.
The Commissioner of Police, Adekimi Ojo, commended the VCRU for their proactive efforts and reassured the public of the Command’s commitment to tackling crime across the state. He urged residents to ignore false reports and refrain from sharing unverified information that could undermine public peace and security.
