Kwara Monarch Abducted, 42 Illegal Miners Arrested in Police Crackdown
By Nexio News
Ilorin, Kwara State – Police in Kwara State have arrested 42 suspected illegal miners following the brazen abduction of a traditional ruler, Oba Salman Olátúnjí Aweda of Olayinka community in Ifelodun Local Government Area.
The monarch was seized by armed assailants on Saturday evening after they stormed his palace, demanding money reportedly paid to him earlier in the day by miners operating in the area.
Terrorists Storm Palace, Demand Ransom
According to Kwara State Police Commissioner Adekimi Ojo, the attackers—numbering about ten—forcibly entered the palace, confronted the monarch, and took him away alongside his brother. The abductors allegedly demanded the proceeds from royalties paid by miners earlier that day.
“Upon receiving the alert, we deployed drones and tactical units, leading to the arrest of 42 illegal miners in the community,” Ojo told reporters. “Investigations are ongoing to determine if any of them were involved in the abduction.”
The commissioner revealed that the monarch’s brother, who was barefoot during the abduction, grew exhausted during the ordeal and refused to continue. Rather than killing him, the kidnappers tied him to a tree before fleeing with the traditional ruler.
N400 Million Ransom Demand
Local sources confirmed that the kidnappers have demanded a staggering N400 million ransom for the monarch’s release. The incident has sent shockwaves through the community, raising concerns over rising insecurity in Kwara South.
Abdulrasheed Femi Yusuf, Chairman of Ifelodun Local Government, described the abduction as “unfortunate” and assured residents that authorities were working closely with security agencies to secure the monarch’s safe return.
“We are deeply concerned and taking decisive action,” Yusuf said during a meeting with residents. “Security personnel, forest guards, and local vigilantes are combing the area to locate and rescue the Oba.”
Community on Edge as Security Efforts Intensify
The abduction has left residents fearful, with many questioning whether it signals a resurgence of criminal activity in the region. Yusuf urged the public to remain calm and assist security forces with any relevant information.
“Community cooperation is vital in tackling security challenges,” he emphasized. “We are committed to ensuring the safety of all residents under Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s administration.”
Police have detained the 42 suspects at the state headquarters in Ilorin while investigations continue. Authorities have yet to confirm whether the abductors are linked to illegal mining operations in the area.
As the search for the monarch intensifies, locals remain hopeful for his safe return while calling for stronger security measures to prevent future incidents.
— Reported by Nexio News
