The Nigeria Police Force has arrested 33 suspected members of a criminal syndicate linked to terrorism, kidnapping and armed robbery in a series of coordinated operations spanning Kwara and Kogi states.
Operatives of the Force Intelligence Department Intelligence Response Team carried out the arrests following investigations into a deadly attack on a Christ Apostolic Church in Eruku, Kwara State, in November 2025.
Police spokesperson, Anthony Placid, disclosed this on Monday during a press briefing at the unit’s headquarters in Abuja, revealing that an anti-aircraft launcher and other sophisticated weapons were recovered from the suspects.
According to him, the church attack left at least three worshippers dead, while 38 others, including the pastor, were abducted during an evening service.
The incident, which was reportedly broadcast live, drew widespread outrage before the victims were eventually rescued through a joint security operation.
Placid said preliminary findings linked the suspects to a range of violent crimes, including criminal conspiracy, armed robbery, kidnapping, cattle rustling and culpable homicide.
He added that the group was also involved in illegal arms trafficking and acts of terrorism across the affected regions.
Items recovered during the operations include seven AK-47 rifles, multiple magazines, 32 rounds of live ammunition, communication devices and a camouflage hydration backpack, in addition to the anti-aircraft launcher.
The police said the arrests were made in multiple locations, including Gbugbu, Ora-Ago, Baballa, Kaiama, Awi, Charagi, Patigi and Okeode, following actionable intelligence and surveillance.
Authorities said investigations were ongoing, with efforts intensified to dismantle the wider network behind the criminal activities.