Security operatives have apprehended 15 suspected criminals, including a wanted key figure named Tambaya, during raids in Kwara State.
A joint task force from the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), police, and local vigilantes, conducted the raid, which resulted in a gun duel that killed several criminals.
Rafiu Ajakaye, Chief Press Secretary to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, announced the arrests in the Edu and Patigi local councils. He noted that Tambaya was the mastermind behind a recent attack on security forces in Gada, Lafiagi.
In this operation, security forces arrested Tambaya and eight others, rescued two victims, and recovered N11 million in criminal proceeds.
“More than 15 criminals, including Tambaya, have been arrested in the new security clampdown in the area,” he said. Ajakaye recalled that Tambaya was the major mastermind of the recent attack on security forces and vigilantes in Gada, Lafiagi.
“Tambaya and eight others were arrested in one encounter with the security forces, while several of his gang members were eliminated,” the governor’s aide said.
He said: “During the operation, we rescued two victims of their criminality and recovered N11 million, which is apparently proceeds of the crime.”
On the same day, 20 additional individuals suspected of criminal activity were arrested and taken to Abuja for further investigation. Ajakaye emphasized that collaboration with security forces from Kogi and Niger states thwarted the suspects’ escape.
The operation targeted areas with recent security breaches, and those arrested were found with ammunition and supplies for criminal activities. They have also been taken to Abuja for further interrogation.
