The Nigerian Police Force (NPF) has arrested 33 suspected members of a criminal syndicate linked to the violent abduction of worshippers at a church in Kwara State, marking a major breakthrough in the investigation into the high-profile attack.
Police spokesperson, Anthony Placid, disclosed that the suspects were apprehended during coordinated intelligence-led operations across Kwara and neighbouring Kogi State. The arrests form part of a broader security offensive targeting criminal networks involved in terrorism, kidnapping, and armed robbery across the region.
The suspects are believed to be part of a larger group of about 50 individuals connected to multiple violent crimes. Authorities said several of those arrested are already facing imminent prosecution, while efforts are ongoing to track down fleeing accomplices and recover additional weapons.
The arrests are tied to the November 2025 attack on a Christ Apostolic Church in Eruku, Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State. During the incident, heavily armed gunmen stormed the church during a service, killing at least three worshippers and abducting 38 others, including the presiding pastor.
The attack, which was partially captured on a live stream, triggered nationwide outrage and intensified concerns over insecurity and targeted attacks on religious gatherings. The abducted victims were later rescued through coordinated security operations.
Police investigations reveal that the arrested suspects were involved in a wide range of criminal activities beyond the church attack, including kidnapping, cattle rustling, armed robbery, and unlawful possession and trafficking of firearms.
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During the operations, security operatives recovered a cache of sophisticated weapons, including AK-47 rifles, magazines, ammunition, communication devices, and even an anti-aircraft launcher—highlighting the scale and capability of the criminal network.
According to the police, the operation was driven by a combination of human intelligence and technical surveillance, leading to raids in multiple locations such as Kaiama, Patigi, and other affected communities.
The police reiterated their commitment to dismantling criminal syndicates threatening public safety, assuring Nigerians that ongoing operations will continue until all perpetrators are brought to justice.
