In the wake of last Tuesday’s deadly bandit attack on church worshippers in Eruku, Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State, security agencies have arrested several individuals allegedly linked to aiding bandit operations across the state.
Among those apprehended is a man from Makurdi, Benue State, who reportedly specialised in repairing and preparing weapons for bandit groups.
The Commissioner of Police in Kwara State, Adekimi Ojo, revealed these developments while briefing journalists at the police headquarters in Ilorin.
His address followed a State Security Council meeting held at the Government House.
According to Ojo, intelligence gathered after the Eruku attack prompted intensified joint operations involving the Police, Military, and Department of State Services (DSS).
These efforts, he said, align with directives issued by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to strengthen security across vulnerable regions.
He commended the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, for deploying four specialised tactical units, SWAT, the Intelligence Response Team (IRT), the Special Intervention Squad (SIS), and the Special Tactical Squads (STS), to combat further threats in the state.
Ojo disclosed that the recent meeting “harvested valuable insights from field commanders on ongoing rescue efforts, intelligence gathering, and the pursuit of those responsible for the Eruku attack.”
He added that increased air surveillance and interdictions had forced bandits out of several hideouts, particularly in Ifelodun.
The council called for continued aerial raids on locations identified as criminal camps.
“The Police and DSS have recorded several arrests, including individuals supplying food and fuel to the bandits, as well as the Makurdi man who confessed to servicing the criminals’ weapons,” he said.
The State Security Council also endorsed the government’s recent security measures around schools, especially in communities considered high-risk.
It encouraged citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements promptly.
Ojo further warned about the destabilising role of social media, accusing some users of circulating unverified information that compromises security operations.
For public safety, he urged residents to avoid late-night farming or social activities that could leave them vulnerable to attacks.
Traditional rulers and community leaders were also encouraged to support intelligence sharing with security agencies.
The meeting observed a minute of silence in honour of victims of the Eruku Christ Apostolic Church attack and extended condolences to affected families.
