Federal police spokesperson Anthony Okon Placid stated that a 33-member gang was responsible for an attack on Christ Apostolic Church in Eruku town on November 18. The assault resulted in the abduction of 38 people. This gang was also linked to other kidnappings, cattle rustling, and armed robbery across the region.
The 33 suspects were apprehended during coordinated raids in Kwara and neighboring Kogi state, based on human and technical intelligence. Since January, these operations have led to the arrest of 50 suspects.
Nigeria has long faced issues with insecurity, including kidnappings for ransom, banditry, and militant attacks. The Eruku assault added pressure to the government, which was already under scrutiny from US President Donald Trump for threatening military action over alleged persecution of Christians. Placid confirmed that several suspects would soon face charges as police continue their pursuit of fleeing gang members and recovery of additional weapons.