Joint security operatives in Kwara State have arrested a suspected kidnap syndicate kingpin linked to the abduction of the traditional ruler of Afin community in Ifelodun Local Government Area, Oba Simeon Olanipekun.
The Coordinator of Joint Security Watch, Kwara South, Elder Olaitan Oyin-Zubair, disclosed this in a statement on Sunday.
Oyin-Zubair said the suspect was arrested around Oke-Ode during a coordinated operation led by Captain Abiola.
He said, “A notorious kidnap kingpin operating in the Babanla and Oreke axis of Ifelodun LGA has been arrested around Okeode.
“The arrest was made by joint security operatives led by Captain Abiola during a surprise routine movement between Afin-Ilere, Owode Offaro, and Oreke.
“The suspect has been identified as one of the masterminds behind the kidnapping of Oba Olanipekun of Afin-Ilere.”
Oyin-Zubair said intelligence reports showed that the gang was planning fresh attacks in parts of Ifelodun and Irepodun LGAs before or during the Eid-el-Kabir celebrations.
“Intelligence shows that the gang planned to carry out attacks in parts of Ifelodun and Irepodun LGAs before or during the Ileya festivities.
“All security agencies remain on red alert to ensure a peaceful Eid-Kabir celebration and sustained security beyond the holiday,” he added.
Monarch Freed After Ransom
Oba Olanipekun and his son were abducted on December 31, 2025, after gunmen invaded the monarch’s palace in Afin community.
His son, Olaolu, a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, was released about two weeks later after a reported ₦20 million ransom payment.
The monarch regained freedom on February 4, 2026, after the family reportedly paid an additional ₦12m and supplied two power banks to the kidnappers.