Kwara police arrest three suspected vandals, armed robbers

Three suspects have been taken into custody for alleged vandalism and armed robbery in Ilorin, the capital of Kwara State.

SP Adetoun Ejire Adeyemi, spokesperson for the state police command, said the arrests were made on Tuesday by officers of the newly formed Violent Crimes Response Unit (VCRU).

“Based on sustained surveillance and credible intelligence, following concerns raised by members of the public about suspected criminal activity along the Asa Dam/Dangote Road axis, VCRU operatives responded in the early hours of Tuesday, 27 May 2026, to suspicious movements around the Tanke area of Ilorin. This led to the arrest of three suspects linked to a criminal syndicate that has vandalised government‑installed solar light infrastructure and carried out armed robbery along the Asa Dam/Dangote Road axis,” he said.

The spokesperson added that preliminary investigations show the suspects belong to a wider network responsible for criminal activity across key locations in Ilorin.

“Items recovered from the suspects include two locally made pistols, pliers, and various suspected hard drugs, believed to have been used in the commission of their crimes,” the spokesperson said.

“Further intelligence‑led efforts are underway to identify, track, and arrest other members of the syndicate and their associates,” he added.

State Commissioner of Police Adekimi Ojo praised the VCRU’s intelligence‑driven and proactive operations, noting that the success reflects the command’s sustained surveillance at identified flashpoints and its commitment to the safety and security of residents.

He assured the public that no criminal element will be allowed to operate freely within the state.