Kwara VCRU disrupt Bandit network in Baruten, recover AK-47 rifles, ammunition

The Kwara State Police Command has announced a major breakthrough in its fight against violent crime following a coordinated intelligence-led operation that disrupted a suspected banditry network in Baruten Local Government Area, THE PRIME NEWS reports.

The operation, carried out by the Command’s Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) in collaboration with officers of the Okuta Divisional Police Headquarters, led to the arrest of two suspected bandits and the recovery of assault weapons and other incriminating items.

According to a statement issued on Monday by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, the tactical raid was conducted on June 6, 2026, at a suspected criminal hideout in Okuta, Baruten LGA.

The police said two suspects, identified as Bello Mohammed, 28 and Abubakar Mohammed, 25, were arrested during the operation.

A search of the hideout reportedly led to the recovery of two AK-47 rifles, 65 rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition, two cutlasses, two tube tyres allegedly used in restraining victims, firearm servicing materials, criminal charms, a dagger, a mobile phone and a power bank.

Preliminary investigations linked the suspects to a criminal network allegedly involved in kidnapping, armed attacks and other violent crimes across the Baruten axis and neighbouring communities.

During interrogation, one of the suspects, Abubakar Mohammed, reportedly confessed to involvement in the group’s activities and disclosed that he had previously sustained injuries during a confrontation with security operatives, which resulted in the loss of three fingers.

Further intelligence gathered during the investigation led to the arrest of another suspect, Umoru Saliu (58), on June 7, 2026. Investigators allege that he provided accommodation and logistical support to members of the criminal network, including some gang leaders who are still at large.

Reacting to the development, the Commissioner of Police in Kwara State, CP Ojo Adekimi, described the operation as a major success in the Command’s ongoing offensive against violent crime.

He said the breakthrough reflected the effectiveness of the operational strategies introduced by the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, aimed at strengthening internal security and dismantling criminal networks nationwide.

“The success reflects the effectiveness of the operational strategies and directives of the Inspector-General of Police aimed at strengthening internal security, combating violent crime and dismantling criminal networks across the country,” Adekimi stated.

The police assured residents that efforts were ongoing to apprehend other fleeing members of the syndicate and completely dismantle the network.

“All suspects found culpable will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations,” the Command added.