The Kwara State Police Command has arrested 42 suspected illegal miners in connection with ongoing investigations into the abduction of a traditional ruler, Oba Salman Olatunji Aweda.
The monarch, who presides over the Olayinka community in Ifelodun Local Government Area, was reportedly kidnapped on Saturday evening when armed men stormed his palace.
Confirming the development, Commissioner of Police Adekimi Ojo said the arrests were made as security operatives intensified efforts to rescue the monarch and uncover those behind the attack.
According to the police commissioner, about ten heavily armed men invaded the palace shortly after miners had visited the monarch earlier in the day. The attackers allegedly broke into the building, dragged the monarch from his room, and demanded money they believed had been given to him by the miners.
Ojo stated that although the monarch handed over the money, the gunmen still abducted him along with his brother.
He explained that security agencies swiftly launched a response after receiving reports of the incident, deploying drones and other operational resources to track the suspects.
“Immediately we got wind of the development, we swung into action using drones and other logistics, and we eventually arrested 42 illegal miners in the community,” the police commissioner said.
However, he noted that investigators are yet to establish whether any of those arrested were directly involved in the kidnapping.
“All suspects are currently in custody at the State Police Headquarters in Ilorin, while investigations continue,” he added.
Further details revealed that the monarch’s brother, who was abducted alongside him, was later abandoned by the kidnappers during the trek into the forest.
According to Ojo, the victim became exhausted after walking barefoot and could no longer continue.
“He told them to kill him if they wished because he was too tired to go on,” the commissioner said.
The abductors reportedly tied him to a tree before proceeding deeper into the forest with the monarch.
Meanwhile, sources within the community said the kidnappers have contacted residents and are demanding a ransom of ₦400 million for the monarch’s release.
Reacting to the incident, Abdulrasheed Femi Yusuf described the abduction as disturbing and unfortunate.
He said the local government, in collaboration with security agencies, had launched coordinated search operations involving security personnel, forest guards, and local vigilantes across surrounding forests.
“The operation is aimed at ensuring the safe rescue of the abducted monarch,” Yusuf said.
He appealed to residents to remain calm and support authorities with useful information, stressing that community cooperation remains vital in tackling insecurity and restoring peace.
The council chairman also assured residents that the protection of lives and property remains a top priority, while efforts continue to secure the safe return of the monarch.
