Operatives of the Force Intelligence Department–Intelligence Response Team (FID-IRT) have arrested 33 suspected members of a criminal network linked to terrorism, kidnapping, and armed robbery, recovering an anti-aircraft launcher and other high-grade weapons.
The Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Placid, disclosed this on Monday during a press briefing at the FID-IRT headquarters in Abuja.
He said the suspects were apprehended during coordinated operations across Kwara and Kogi states following investigations into the November 2025 attack on a Christ Apostolic Church in Eruku, Kwara State.
During the attack, armed bandits reportedly killed at least three worshippers and abducted 38 others, including the pastor, during an evening service. The incident, which was streamed live, sparked nationwide outrage. The victims were later rescued through a joint security operation.
According to Placid, preliminary investigations indicate that the suspects were involved in multiple crimes, including criminal conspiracy, armed robbery, kidnapping, cattle rustling, culpable homicide, unlawful possession of firearms, arms dealing, and acts of terrorism.
Items recovered from the suspects include seven AK-47 rifles, seven magazines, an anti-aircraft launcher, 32 rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition, five walkie-talkie devices, and a camouflage hydration backpack.
Placid stated that the arrests were made at various locations, including Gbugbu, Ora-Ago, Baballa, Kaiama, Awi, Charagi, Patigi, and Okeode. He added that some suspects abandoned weapons, including the anti-aircraft launcher and three AK-47 rifles, during the operations.
He noted that investigations are ongoing to apprehend fleeing members of the gang and recover additional weapons.
The 33 suspects are part of about 50 individuals paraded by the police as part of intensified efforts to dismantle criminal networks across the country.
