A suspected bandit disguised as a beggar has been apprehended in Igbaja, Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, security officials have confirmed.
Elder Oyin Zubair, Coordinator of the Joint Security Watch for Kwara South Senatorial District, disclosed the arrest on Wednesday, describing it as part of a growing pattern of criminal tactics in the region.
According to him, the suspect had been moving freely among towns and villages while posing as a beggar in a bid to avoid suspicion.
“The suspect was caught disguised as a beggar in Igbaja. This is part of a disturbing trend we have noticed,” Zubair said. “They sometimes pretend to be mentally unstable persons in certain areas. It is a tactic used to evade law enforcement.”
The arrest follows intelligence reports indicating that some bandits previously operating around Baba Sango and Oro-Ago have begun dispersing into other parts of Kwara South.
Security sources allege that informants, often disguised as beggars, are deployed to scout communities before attacks or kidnappings are carried out.
During interrogation, the suspect reportedly mentioned alleged sponsors operating from Kaara Market, Ajasepo, and Olayinka near Oke-Ode, claiming they directed the group’s movements.
He has since been handed over to the Kwara State Anti-Kidnapping Squad (AKS) for further investigation, while authorities assured residents that appropriate action would be taken.
Zubair urged members of the public to remain vigilant, warning that criminal elements may continue to adopt disguises in attempts to infiltrate communities.
