Crime

Army Arrests Suspected Bandits in Kwara, Detainees Allege Arms Came From Government Sources

Published by admin on December 14th, 2025.

Army Arrests Suspected Bandits in Kwara, Detainees Allege Arms Came From Government Sources

Troops of the Nigerian Army have arrested a group of suspected bandits in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State after intercepting them with AK-47 rifles and a vehicle said to be used for local security patrols. The suspects were taken into custody during a military operation in the area.

In a video that surfaced online, the arrested men were seen lying face down with their hands tied while soldiers questioned them about their activities and the source of the weapons. During the interrogation, one of the suspects, speaking in Hausa and Nigerian Pidgin, claimed that both the patrol vehicle and the rifles were supplied by officials of the Kwara State government. He alleged that they had been operating in the area for some time under the cover of security patrol duties.

The suspect further claimed that the weapons were not handed directly to him but were collected by their superior, whom he referred to as their “oga.” He insisted that several people were involved and repeatedly stated that the rifles did not belong to them personally, swearing that the arms were provided by others. Other detainees could be heard chanting religious phrases as questioning continued.

As at the time of this report, the Kwara State government has not reacted to the claims made by the suspects, and the Nigerian Army has also not issued an official statement confirming the details of the arrest or the allegations. The development comes amid growing concerns over insecurity in parts of Kwara State, following recent reports of kidnappings and bandit attacks in Yagba East and Yagba West areas, which have left residents worried and demanding stronger security measures.