The Kwara State Police Command has arrested a suspected member of a kidnapping syndicate while allegedly attempting to withdraw ransom linked to the abduction of three residents of Obudu Village in Ilorin East Local Government Area.

The suspect, identified as Muhamodu Sanni, was arrested at a Point of Sale (POS) outlet following an intelligence-led investigation into the July 28 attack on the community.

According to the police, armed men invaded Obudu Village and abducted three residents, prompting investigators to expand their probe beyond tracking the immediate perpetrators.

The Command said detectives began tracing the communication channels, movement of funds and ransom collection methods allegedly used by the criminal group.

The police spokesperson, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, said the investigation eventually led operatives to Sanni, who was allegedly intercepted while attempting to withdraw money connected to the abduction.

She described the arrest as a significant breakthrough in efforts to dismantle the suspected kidnapping syndicate and disrupt the financial and logistical networks supporting its operations.

During interrogation, Sanni allegedly provided investigators with information about other members of the group, identifying two suspects simply as Aminu and Umar.

The Command said investigations were ongoing, with further operational action expected as information obtained from the suspect was analysed and corroborated.

The Commissioner of Police in Kwara State, CP Ojo Adekimi, assured residents that the Command would continue to target criminal networks and the structures supporting their activities.

He also urged members of the public to provide timely and credible information that could assist security agencies in preventing and dismantling criminal operations across the state.

The police assured residents that efforts would be sustained to restrict the activities of criminal elements and strengthen security across Kwara State.