Kwara Police Arrest Miners After Monarch Abduction

By Babatunji Wusu

The Kwara State Police Command has arrested 42 suspected illegal miners following the shocking monarch abduction of Oba Salman Aweda in Olayinka community, Ifelodun Local Government Area. Commissioner of Police, Adekimi Ojo, confirmed the arrests on Monday, linking the incident to armed attackers who struck shortly after the monarch received money from miners.

According to Ojo, about ten heavily armed men invaded the palace on Saturday evening. They forced their way in, seized the monarch, and demanded the money given to him earlier that day. He complied, yet the attackers still took him away alongside his brother.

Police launched a swift response using drones and other resources. This operation led to the arrest of 42 illegal miners in the area. However, Ojo noted that investigations are ongoing to confirm whether the abductors are among those detained. All suspects are now in custody at the police headquarters in Ilorin.

During the abduction, the monarch’s brother reportedly became exhausted and refused to continue. He told the attackers to kill him if they wished. Instead, they tied him to a tree and left with the monarch. Reports from the community indicate that the kidnappers have demanded N400 million for the monarch’s release.

The Chairman of Ifelodun LGA, Abdulrasheed Yusuf, described the incident as troubling and confirmed that authorities are working closely with security agencies. “We are deeply concerned about this incident, and we are taking swift and decisive action in collaboration with security agencies,” he said.

Security teams, supported by vigilantes and forest guards, have intensified search efforts. Yusuf urged residents to remain calm and share useful information to support rescue operations.

Do you think stronger action against illegal mining can help curb rising monarch abduction cases?