Three Miyetti Allah Leaders Arrested in Kwara Over Alleged Banditry Sponsorship
Security operatives in Kwara State have arrested three senior members of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) over their alleged involvement in sponsoring and facilitating kidnapping operations linked to Fulani bandit groups.
The suspects, all Fulani elders above the age of 60, were apprehended during coordinated security operations across parts of Ifelodun, Edu and Patigi Local Government Areas of the state, according to credible security sources.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the arrested individuals allegedly provided financial support, logistics and intelligence to criminal networks responsible for a wave of kidnappings and violent attacks in several rural communities. Security sources further disclosed that the suspects reportedly confessed to acting as intermediaries between bandit groups and their sponsors, helping to coordinate ransom payments and movements of kidnapped victims.
Their arrest comes amid intensified military and security operations in the North-Central region, particularly in forested areas of Kwara State that have been used as hideouts by armed groups.
In recent weeks, joint air and ground offensives have led to the destruction of several bandit camps, the neutralisation of suspected terrorists and the recovery of arms and ammunition.
However, military authorities have expressed concern that ongoing operations are being undermined by community informants who allegedly leak information on troop movements to fleeing bandits, allowing some criminals to evade capture.
A senior security official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the arrests mark a significant breakthrough in dismantling the support networks sustaining banditry in the region. “Banditry does not survive on weapons alone. It thrives on funding, local intelligence and collaboration. These arrests send a strong message that no one is above the law,” the source said.
Meanwhile, security agencies have assured residents of Kwara State of their commitment to restoring peace, urging community members to cooperate with law enforcement and report suspicious activities.
Investigations into the case are ongoing, and further arrests are expected as authorities move to dismantle remaining criminal networks.
As of the time of filing this report, neither MACBAN nor the suspects’ legal representatives had issued an official response to the allegations.
