In a significant breakthrough, the Kwara State Police Command has apprehended a notorious interstate kidnapper, Mohammed Bello, widely known as "Dandolo." The suspect, allegedly responsible for numerous high-profile kidnappings in Kwara, Kogi, and along the Lagos-Ibadan expressway, was arrested in Patigi Local Government Area of Kwara State on Tuesday, December 10, 2024.
The arrest followed actionable intelligence provided by sources in Egbe, Kogi State, prompting swift action from the police.
In a statement released on Thursday, December 12, the Command’s spokesperson, Ejire-Adeyemi Toun, confirmed that Mohammed Bello had been evading capture by fleeing to Patigi. "The Kwara State Police Command, under the leadership of Commissioner of Police Victor Olaiya, successfully apprehended Mohammed Bello after receiving credible intelligence. This operation was carried out in collaboration with the Nigerian Army Forward Operation Base (FOB) in Egbe, Kogi State, led by Lieutenant Isah," Toun said.
Bello is suspected of orchestrating a series of kidnappings in Egbe, Isanlu, and other areas in Kogi State, as well as along key routes in Kwara, including the Omu-Aran-Ilofa-Osi-Eruku-Egbe road. He is also linked to several abductions along the Lagos-Ibadan expressway.
Upon receiving intelligence, the Command deployed a surveillance team to track the suspect. After an extensive search of various locations, including hotels in Patigi, Bello was eventually captured at an undisclosed location.
Following his arrest, Bello was transferred to the Anti-Kidnapping Unit of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Ilorin for further investigation. During preliminary interrogation, the suspect reportedly confessed to multiple kidnapping operations, providing details that will aid ongoing investigations.
Commissioner of Police Victor Olaiya assured residents of the Command's commitment to ensuring safety across the state. "A discreet and thorough investigation is underway to bring all accomplices to justice. We urge residents to remain vigilant and continue supporting law enforcement with timely information to combat crime effectively," he stated.
