Police arrest illegal miners and rescue kidnapped Kwara monarch’s brother

The Kwara State Commissioner of Police, Adekimi Ojo, has confirmed that 42 illegal miners have been arrested following the kidnapping of Oba Salman Aweda of Olayinka community in Ifelodun Local Government Area of ​​the state.

He also said the monarch’s brother, who was taken together with Oba Olayinka, was rescued in a bush, where the victim was tied to a tree by the fleeing kidnappers.

Ojo in an interview with journalists on Monday, said the monarch was kidnapped by 10 heavily armed terrorists on Saturday evening after he was paid some “royalties” by the miners.

He said the terrorists forcibly broke down the door of his building, took him from one of the rooms and demanded the money that the miners had given him a few hours earlier.

Adekimi added that the monarch immediately gave them the money, and then he was taken away with his brother, who was with him.

“Immediately we got wind of the development, we swung into action, using drones and other logistical means, and ultimately arrested 42 illegal miners in the community.

“I cannot confirm whether those who kidnapped the monarch were among the illegal miners we arrested.

“But investigations continue and all the suspects are currently at the Ilorin police station,” the police commissioner said.

He revealed that as the monarch was taken away, his brother, who had been kidnapped along with him but had not worn slippers, was tired and refused to continue the journey.

He reportedly told the terrorists to kill him if they wished, complaining that he was tired of continuing the journey.

“The thugs instead tied him to a tree and left with the monarch,” he said.