Kwara Church Attack: Police Apprehend 33 Suspects, Seize Anti-Aircraft Weapon

Authorities announced on Monday the arrest of no fewer than 33 individuals believed to be part of a criminal network engaged in terrorism, kidnapping, and armed robbery. The police high command also reported the recovery of an anti-aircraft launcher and various sophisticated weapons by its intelligence response team.

During a press briefing at the Force Intelligence Department–Intelligence Response Team (FID-IRT) headquarters in Abuja, the Force Spokesman, Deputy Commissioner of Police Anthony Placid, shared the update. He stated that the 33 suspects were apprehended in joint operations across Kwara and Kogi states.

These operations were a result of investigations into the November 20, 2025, incident where an attack occurred at a Christ Apostolic Church in Eruku, Kwara State. Daily Trust recalls that on November 18, 2025, bandits attacked the church during an evening service, resulting in the deaths of at least three worshippers and the abduction of 38 members, including the pastor.

The attack, which was live-streamed, drew national condemnation. The abducted individuals were later released following a collaborative security operation.

Providing further details, Placid informed journalists that initial investigations indicated the suspects' involvement in criminal conspiracy, armed robbery, and kidnapping. Their alleged crimes also extend to cattle rustling, culpable homicide, illegal possession of firearms, arms dealing, and acts of terrorism.

Items confiscated from the suspects include seven AK-47 rifles, seven magazines, one anti-aircraft launcher, 32 rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition, five walkie-talkie communication devices, and a camouflage hydration backpack.

Placid elaborated on the operation, stating, “Following the attack on the C.A.C in Eruku Town, Ekiti LGA of Kwara State on 20th November 2025, operatives of the IRT, acting on credible human and technical intelligence, conducted coordinated operations across Kwara and Kogi States.

“Preliminary investigation revealed that the gang was involved in criminal conspiracy, armed robbery, kidnapping, cattle rustling, culpable homicide, unlawful possession of firearms, arms dealing, and acts of terrorism which prima facie case has been established.

“The gang members were arrested at multiple locations including Gbugbu, Ora- Ago, Baballa, Kaiama, Awi, Charagi, Patigi, and Okeode.

“During operations, the suspects abandoned an anti-aircraft rifle and three AK-47 rifles, which were subsequently recovered by the police. Investigation is ongoing to apprehend any fleeing members of the gang to recover additional operational weapons.”