Abah Felicity 
ILORIN, Nigeria – The Kwara State Police Command has arrested a suspected kidnap gang member over an alleged attempt to purchase an AK-47 rifle for ₦1.6 million, intensifying its crackdown on organised criminal networks operating across the state.
The suspect, identified as Sanda Aliyu, was arrested by operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Section following intelligence that he was negotiating to acquire the assault rifle from a wanted suspect, Aliyu Mohammed, in Kaiama Local Government Area.
Police said the operation prevented the firearm from being delivered.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Police Public Relations Officer, Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, said investigators arrested Aliyu after receiving credible intelligence on the planned illegal arms transaction.
During interrogation, the suspect allegedly admitted his involvement in the deal.
According to the police spokesperson, Aliyu confessed that ₦1.6 million had already been paid for the rifle.
Investigators also alleged that the suspect revealed he intended to use the weapon to rise through the ranks of his kidnapping gang before breaking away to establish and lead his own criminal network.
The police said investigations have now expanded to identify other members of the suspected criminal syndicate and uncover the full scope of the arms procurement network.
Kwara State Commissioner of Police, Ojo Adekimi, reaffirmed the command’s commitment to dismantling kidnapping gangs and other violent criminal groups through intelligence-led policing.
“The command will deploy all available lawful resources to protect residents and communities while sustaining the offensive against criminal elements until people can carry out their daily activities without fear,” Adekimi said.
About the Author
Hope Ajayi 
Mirian Gom 
