Sodiq Rabiu
A suspected armed kidnapper has been arrested in Nigeria’s southwestern state if Kwara.
The suspect, identified as Saleh Yusuf, was arrested by a vigilante group in Oke-Ode, Ifelodun Local Government Area of the state, after the vigilantes tracked his movements based on intelligence reports linking him to recent abductions in the area.
In a viral video seen by KOIKI Media, Yusuf admitted to being an ex-convict who had previously served two years in prison, adding he returned to kidnapping after his release.
“My name is Saleh Yusuf. I reside in Babanla. For the sake of God, I am a member of the Aro gang, and I swear I was not aware of this operation,” the suspected kidnapper said.
“After I came back from prison and met with Aro, he told me to stop banditry. Since then, I have not engaged in any criminal activity except for this one, where I was arrested.”
When asked about the AK-47 rifle found in his possession, he admitted that it belonged to one Aro.
“Kachalla Aro did not know that I took one of his AK-47 rifles. It was Smally who brought us for this kidnapping operation.
“We went to kidnap a businessman in Oke-Ode. The team included me, Saleh, Yati, Abacha, and Smally. We were four in total and had two AK-47 rifles for the operation,” he said.
Pleading for forgiveness, Yusuf said: “Give me water, I am thirsty. I promise to reveal all those involved, one after the other. I swear to God, since I came back from prison, I have not engaged in any criminal activity except for this one.”
He also admitted to previous involvement in cattle rustling, which led to his imprisonment for two years.
When asked why he returned to crime after his release, he claimed he had stayed away from crime for a year before this incident.
“I stole the AK-47 from Aro’s stash. He has about 31 AK-47 rifles,” he said.
When asked if he could assist in rescuing other kidnapped victims, he said: “I swear to God; I was not involved in that operation. But I heard that some people were kidnapped recently. I was told that the Ore gang was responsible, but I cannot confirm it. However, I know the Ore gang members; they are many, but I do not know who among them carried out the operation.”
The Kwara State chapter of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) also confirmed the arrest of the suspect in a Sunday statement.
In the statement released by Alhaji Idris Abubakar Sakaina, through MACBAN’s Public Relations Officer, Abubakar Muhammad Kangodabe, the group commended the efforts of the local vigilante group.
“Yesterday, the Miyetti Allah vigilantes successfully apprehended several suspected kidnappers and rescued the kidnapped victims,” the cattle Breeders group said.
“In addition, the vigilantes recovered several weapons, including AK-47 rifles, along with hard drugs and various items seized from the victims.”
Sakaina stated that the entire executive council and members of the association were pleased with the bravery and commitment of the vigilantes.
“In recognition of their outstanding service, the association honors them and pledges continued support to strengthen efforts against terrorism, banditry, and all forms of criminal activities,” he added.
The Kwara State Police Command could not be reached for comment.
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