Security operatives have apprehended 15 suspected criminals, including one named Tambaya, during raids in Kwara State. A joint task force, which included officials in the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), police officers and local vigilantes, successfully carried out the operation, resulting in the killing of the criminals during a gun-duel.

  Chief Press Secretary to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, Rafiu Ajakaye, confirmed the massive arrest of the criminals in Edu and Patigi local councils yesterday.

  According to him, the arrested criminals were targeted for their involvement in recent security breaches in the council areas of the state. 

 “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.”

  Also on Wednesday, security operatives arrested 20 individuals suspected to be involved in criminal activities in the state. The suspects were transported to Abuja for further investigation.

  Ajakaye, while confirming the successful operation, said that the collaboration with security forces from neighbouring Kogi and Niger states prevented the criminals from escaping.  

  The suspects, who were involved in gun running and logistical support for criminal activities, were arrested in Ifelodun Local Council of the state.

  Ajakaye said that the crackdown was initiated by the state government and the Office of the National Security Adviser, involving the deployment of nearly 400 specialised security operatives, adding that the operation targeted areas like Ifelodun, Ekiti, Edu, and Patigi, where recent breaches had been observed. 

  Besides, he said that the suspected criminals, found in possession of ammunition and supplies meant for criminal activities in Babanla (Ifelodun), had been taken to Abuja for further interrogation along with the seized ammunition.