ABUJA, April 14, 2026 The Nigeria Police Force has confirmed the arrest of *33 suspects* allegedly linked to terrorism, kidnapping, and armed robbery following coordinated operations across Kwara and Kogi States
The arrests were executed by the Intelligence Response Team (IRT), a tactical unit of the Force, after weeks of surveillance and intelligence gathering. Police authorities said the suspects belong to a criminal syndicate responsible for a string of violent attacks in the North-Central region.
Link to 2025 Eruku Church Attack
Investigators directly tied the group to the 2025 attack on a church in Eruku, Kwara State, during which multiple worshippers were killed and several others abducted. That incident sparked national outrage and renewed calls for decisive action against armed groups operating along the Kwara-Kogi corridor.
A senior police source said the IRT tracked the suspects through digital forensics, informant tips, and inter-agency collaboration. The operations were carried out simultaneously in undisclosed locations across both states to prevent escape or tip-offs. Weapons, communication devices, and documents were reportedly recovered, though police have not released an official exhibit list.
Security Context
The arrests come amid heightened insecurity in the North-Central, where communities have faced raids by gunmen on motorcycles, mass abductions, and targeted attacks on places of worship. Just this week, at least 15 people were killed in Niger State when armed men invaded three villages, firing indiscriminately and looting shops.
The Kwara-Kogi axis has become a flashpoint due to its forests and border routes, which security experts say are exploited by criminal networks for hideouts and movement. The IRT’s latest operation signals an attempt to disrupt those corridors ahead of further escalations.
Official Statement Pending
As of press time, the Force Public Relations Officer had not issued a formal press release. However, details of the operation were first circulated via security-focused platforms on *Monday evening, April 13, 2026 with Nairaland threads noting the arrest at 6:07pm Daily Post Nigeria also published the development, listing it under terrorism-linked arrests.
Police said the suspects are undergoing profiling and interrogation at IRT headquarters. They are expected to be charged under the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022 and the Firearms Act, among other statutes. Authorities did not confirm if any of the suspects are on previous watchlists.
Public Demand for Prosecution
Online reaction has been swift. While many Nigerians welcomed the arrests, comments across social platforms emphasized the need for prosecution and convictions rather than “parade and release”. Common sentiments included calls for life imprisonment or capital punishment if guilt is established, and demands for a “long-term solution” beyond arrests.
Security analysts say the next 72 hours are critical. David Babawale, a security consultant, noted that “arrests must be followed by airtight evidence gathering, witness protection, and speedy arraignment. Without that, syndicates regroup within weeks.”
The police action aligns with wider federal efforts to dismantle terror financing and logistics networks. On April 13, the Securities and Exchange Commission announced an asset freeze on 10 individuals and 3 entities suspected of funding terrorism, based on designations by the Nigeria Sanctions Committee chaired by Attorney-General Lateef Fagbemi, SAN.
The Federal Government has faced pressure to show measurable results as attacks persist despite military operations. The National Security Adviser’s office has in recent months pushed for tighter synergy between the Police, DSS, NFIU, and the military to track suspects across state lines.
The 33 suspects will be screened to separate foot soldiers from financiers and commanders, police sources said. Those with direct links to killings and abductions face terrorism charges, which carry life imprisonment or death under Nigerian law. Others may be charged with illegal possession of firearms, conspiracy, or aiding and abetting.
The Police Force reiterated its commitment to “dismantling criminal networks endangering citizens” and urged the public to provide timely information. No timeline was given for arraignment.
