From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
The Kwara State Police Command, has paraded series of high-profile criminal cases, ranging from homicide and ritual killings to fraud, theft, and kidnapping, following a string of tactical operations across the state in August.
Speaking at a press briefing in Ilorin, the Commissioner of Police, CP Adekimi Ojo, assured residents that the Command remains steadfast in its duty to protect lives and property.
“We remain resolute in our constitutional mandate of safeguarding lives, preventing crime, and maintaining order in Kwara. These arrests and recoveries are the product of discreet investigations, intelligence gathering, and the cooperation of the good people of the state,” Ojo said.
One of the most shocking cases involved the murder of Mrs. Esther Enemor, whose mutilated body was discovered in Egbejila community. Investigations revealed that her husband, Mr. Ekene Enemor, had a direct hand in her killing. He has confessed to the crime, while other suspects remain at large.
In another development, operatives arrested a suspect, Mr. Adeola Badru, who allegedly defrauded a complainant of N300 million under the pretense of securing him a federal political appointment. Police said the suspect was tracked to Ibadan and confessed to the fraud.
The Command also uncovered a homicide case in Patigi LGA where two men, a farmer and a vigilante, were arrested for shooting and dumping the body of 28-year-old Mohammed Altini in an abandoned well. A dane gun used in the attack was recovered.
Cases of armed robbery and shop breaking were also recorded. In Ilorin, a suspect was shot while breaking into a gadget store and later confessed to being part of a gang that stole items including high-capacity power banks and airpods. Other suspects are still on the run.
Police further reported the recovery of a stolen Toyota Camry in Niger State after it was traced to a buyer. The thief and the receiver have been arrested and charged to court.
Similarly, kidnappings remain a major focus of police operations. In Idofin-Igbana, three suspects were arrested after invading a home and abducting three women. Two victims were rescued, but one remains in captivity. In another case, three suspected kidnappers were caught in Okuta after collecting a N10 million ransom. Police recovered part of the ransom money, ammunition, and shells from the suspects.
On illegal possession of firearms, one man was arrested in Eyenkorin with a locally made pistol after breaking into a newly purchased property.
CP Ojo, commended the synergy between police operatives, vigilantes, and residents in achieving these successes. He, however, called on the public to remain vigilant and share credible information with security agencies.
“Every arrest, every recovery, and every confession shows our determination to bring criminals to justice. Together with the cooperation of citizens, Kwara State will be safer and more secure,” the Commissioner said.