Police Arrest 42 Illegal Miners Over Abduction Of Kwara Monarch, Wife

20th April, 2026 | News

The Kwara State Police Command has arrested 42 suspected illegal miners in connection with the abduction of a traditional ruler, Oba Salman Olátúnjí Aweda, his wife, and others in Olayinka community, Ifelodun Local Government Area.

According to the state Commissioner of Police, Adekimi Ojo, the arrests followed a swift security operation involving the deployment of drones and other intelligence resources. He explained that about 10 armed attackers stormed the monarch’s palace late at night, shortly after a group of miners had earlier visited and paid homage.

The assailants reportedly demanded money believed to have been given to the monarch during the visit. After collecting the cash, they abducted the royal figure from his residence. Ojo noted that investigations are ongoing to determine whether the arrested miners were directly involved in the attack.

All 42 suspects are currently in custody in Ilorin as authorities intensify efforts to unravel the circumstances surrounding the incident. The commissioner also revealed that the monarch’s brother, who was abducted alongside him, was later released by the attackers after he became too weak to continue the journey.

Meanwhile, the kidnappers have reportedly contacted members of the community, demanding a ransom of ₦400 million for the release of the monarch and his wife.

Reacting to the development, the Chairman of Ifelodun Local Government Area, Abdulrasheed Femi Yusuf, described the incident as deeply troubling and assured residents that security agencies are working to secure the victims’ safe return. He added that coordinated search efforts involving local vigilantes and forest guards have been intensified across nearby areas.

The incident has heightened concerns among residents, with fears growing over a possible resurgence of insecurity in parts of Kwara South.