Police Arrest 33 Suspected Terrorists, Recover Anti-Aircraft Launcher in Kwara–Kogi Operations
The Nigeria Police Force says its operatives have arrested 33 suspected members of a criminal network linked to terrorism, kidnapping, armed robbery, and other violent crimes, while also recovering an anti-aircraft launcher and several high-powered weapons.
The arrests were announced on Monday by the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Placid, during a briefing at the Force Intelligence Department–Intelligence Response Team (FID-IRT) headquarters in Abuja.
According to him, the suspects were picked up during coordinated operations carried out across parts of Kwara and Kogi States following investigations into the attack on a Christ Apostolic Church in Eruku, Kwara State, in November 2025.
The attack, which left at least three worshippers dead and saw 38 others kidnapped, including the pastor, had sparked nationwide outrage after it was streamed live. The victims were later rescued following a joint security operation.
Placid said preliminary investigations linked the suspects to a wide range of crimes, including kidnapping, armed robbery, cattle rustling, illegal arms dealing, homicide, and terrorism-related activities.
He added that security operatives recovered seven AK-47 rifles, seven magazines, an anti-aircraft launcher, 32 rounds of live ammunition, walkie-talkie devices, and other tactical equipment during the operations.
The arrests were carried out in several locations, including Gbugbu, Ora-Ago, Babanna, Kaiama, Patigi, Oke-Ode and other communities across the two states.
According to the police, some weapons were abandoned by fleeing suspects during the raids and later recovered by operatives.
Placid said investigations are ongoing, noting that efforts are being intensified to track down other fleeing members of the gang and recover additional weapons.
The suspects, whose ages range from 20 to 65, are currently in custody and are expected to face prosecution after investigations are concluded.
