By Dare Akogun
The Kwara State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of a man suspected of attempting to kidnap a child in Ilorin, the state capital.
In a statement released on Saturday, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, said the suspect, whose identity remains unknown, was apprehended on Friday, May 16, at about 7:00 p.m. by a joint patrol team of police operatives and community vigilante members.
The suspect, who reportedly claimed to be from Osun State, was rescued from a violent mob who had accused him of attempting to abduct a child. According to the police, the crowd was on the verge of carrying out jungle justice before law enforcement agents intervened.
He is currently in police custody as investigations are ongoing to ascertain the facts of the case and to identify any possible accomplices.
The police also disclosed that the complainants involved in the incident have yet to report to the command headquarters to provide further information that could aid the investigation.
The statement warned members of the public against taking the law into their hands, describing mob actions and jungle justice as unlawful and capable of causing a miscarriage of justice.
“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 statement read in part.
The Command further urged residents to promptly report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station rather than resorting to violence or self-help.
