Police deny unlawful detention of minor in Kwara community

By Ahmed Olayinka

The Kwara State Police Command has refuted allegations of unlawful detention of a minor in Arandun community, Irepodun Local Government Area of the state, describing the claims as misleading, THE PRIME NEWS reports.

The command made the clarification in a statement issued on Monday by its spokesman, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police.

This development comes amid public outrage sparked by videos circulating on social media showing the minor at the police station, with some residents protesting her arrest.

Explaining the circumstances behind the video, the command explained that the incident stemmed from a case of housebreaking and theft reported on April 30.

“On 30th April 2026, at about 1600 hours, a case of housebreaking and theft was reported at the Arandun Police Division.

“The prime suspect, Timothy Aransiola (male, 19 years), who had been on the division’s watchlist, absconded following the report.

“Subsequent intelligence revealed that the suspect was being harboured and assisted to evade by one Esther Aransiola, ‘F’, 16 years, a sister of the suspect,” the statement read.

The police added that the girl was taken into custody on May 1, 2026, for allegedly aiding and abetting the suspect with intent to obstruct lawful arrest.

“She was duly cautioned, and her statement was taken in line with established procedures, and she was released to her guardian on bond,” the statement added.

The command emphasised that the minor was not detained unlawfully, contrary to claims in the viral video, describing the narrative as inaccurate and intended to misinform the public.

It said efforts were ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspect and bring him to justice.

The police urged members of the public to disregard the circulating content and refrain from spreading unverified information capable of inciting tension.

It reiterated its commitment to upholding the rule of law, protecting citizens’ rights, and maintaining transparency in its operations.