Residents Nab Suspected Bandits Fuel Suppliers in Kwara Communities

Residents and youths of Lade and Dakani communities in Patigi Emirate, Kwara State, have apprehended a group of individuals suspected to be supplying fuel and other logistics to kidnappers and bandits operating in the area.

According to eyewitness accounts, the suspects were intercepted on Saturday while attempting to purchase large quantities of petrol stored in cans and gallons under suspicious circumstances.

Their movements reportedly raised alarm among locals, who quickly mobilized to confront them.

Community members said the suspects could not provide a convincing explanation for their actions, prompting the intervention of local vigilantes and security operatives.

A resident who spoke on condition of anonymity commended the vigilance of the youths, noting that unusual bulk purchases of fuel, large POS transactions, and cooked food deliveries have recently been identified as common supply methods for criminal groups in rural areas.

Security officials have consistently warned that such transactions often serve as cover for logistics operations that sustain kidnappers and armed bandits in remote locations.

The apprehended individuals have been handed over to security authorities for further investigation.

Meanwhile, the Kwara State Government has lauded the swift response of the residents and called on citizens to remain alert and report suspicious activities to security agencies.

A government spokesperson reiterated the message

“Whenever you see strange people buying fuel in cans or making unusually large purchases through POS or food vendors, they should be suspected.

These actions often aid criminal elements. Everyone must play their part in securing our state.”

The successful arrest highlights growing community cooperation with security forces in the ongoing fight against insecurity across the state.