By Omowumi Omotosho
A man who identified himself as Yinka, suspected of attempting to kidnap a child was arrested in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, on Friday evening, sparking widespread public interest and concern following the circulation of a viral video showing his capture.
The arrest occurred around 7:00 PM on Friday during a routine patrol operation by a joint team of police officers and community vigilante members.
The suspect, who claimed to be from Osun State confessed in a viral video that he gets paid N10 million for every successful
kidnapping operation. The suspect also disclosed in the video that he is not the only one operating in Ilorin.
He also stated that he escape lynching in Ikirun, Osun State before moving to Ilorin, many years ago. The suspect was caught by residents who accused him of attempting to abduct a child.
Eyewitnesses disclosed that the man was on the verge of being lynched by an angry mob before security operatives intervened and took him into custody.
The scene, partly captured on video, shows a tense atmosphere as members of the public gathered around the suspect, alleging he had tried to lure a child away from the community.
He is currently being held by the Kwara State Police Command as investigations into the case are underway.
While details remain sketchy and the exact circumstances of the alleged kidnapping attempt are still being pieced together, the police say they are taking the matter seriously.
In an official press statement issued Saturday, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, confirmed the arrest and emphasized that the case is under thorough investigation.
“The suspect who claimed he was from Osun state was apprehended by a joint patrol team of police operatives and community vigilante members during a routine operation. He was rescued from a violent mob who had accused him of attempted kidnap of a child and were on the verge of executing jungle justice,” the statement read.
The police also noted that those directly involved in the complaint have yet to formally report the incident to the command.
“The suspect is currently in police custody as investigations continue to ascertain the facts surrounding the allegations and identify other individuals who may be connected to this incident. The Complainant(s) involved are yet to report at command headquarters to provide more information to aid police detectives in unraveling this incident. Further updates will be provided as investigations unfold,” Ejire-Adeyemi stated.
The police therefore urged the public to refrain from mob action and instead cooperate with the authorities to ensure proper legal procedures are followed.
“The Kwara Police Command uses this medium to reiterate its stance against mob action and jungle justice. Such acts are not only unlawful but can also result in the miscarriage of justice. Members of the public are strongly advised to report all suspicious activities to the nearest police station rather than resort to self-help or violence.
“The Commissioner of Police, Kwara State Command, CP ADEKIMI OJO psc mnips remains committed to protecting lives and property and ensuring justice is served within the bounds of the law,” the police concluded.
