The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has apprehended 33 suspected members of a criminal network linked to terrorism, kidnapping, and armed robbery in coordinated operations across Kwara and Kogi states.
The police also recovered a range of dangerous weapons, including an anti-aircraft launcher, during the raids.
Force Public Relations Officer, Deputy Commissioner of Police Anthony Placid, disclosed this during a press briefing held at the Force Intelligence Department–Intelligence Response Team (IRT) headquarters in Abuja.
Placid explained that the arrests followed investigations into the November 2025 attack on a Christ Apostolic Church in Eruku, Kwara State. During the incident, gunmen invaded a church service, killing at least three worshippers and abducting 38 others, including the pastor.
The attack, which was broadcast live, drew nationwide condemnation before security agencies eventually secured the release of the victims through a joint operation.
According to the police spokesperson, preliminary findings show the suspects were involved in multiple criminal offences, including conspiracy, kidnapping, armed robbery, cattle rustling, homicide, illegal possession of firearms, arms trafficking, and terrorism-related activities.
Items recovered from the suspects include seven AK-47 rifles, seven magazines, an anti-aircraft launcher, 32 rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition, five communication radios, and a camouflage hydration backpack.
He noted that the arrests were made based on credible human and technical intelligence, leading to coordinated operations in several locations such as Gbugbu, Ora-Ago, Baballa, Kaiama, Awi, Charagi, Patigi, and Okeode.
Placid added that some suspects abandoned weapons while trying to escape, which were later recovered by operatives.
He assured that investigations are ongoing to apprehend other fleeing members of the syndicate and recover additional arms, stressing that those in custody will be prosecuted upon the conclusion of investigations.
