Security forces in western Nigeria have arrested 42 suspected illegal miners as investigations deepen into the abduction of a traditional ruler in Kwara State.
The monarch, Oba Salman Olatunji Aweda, who presides over the Olayinka community in Ifelodun, was kidnapped on Saturday evening after armed men stormed his palace in a coordinated attack.
According to police, the gunmen — believed to be heavily armed — forced their way into the palace shortly after a group of miners had visited the ruler earlier in the day. The attackers reportedly demanded money believed to have been given to the monarch by the miners before abducting him.
Although the monarch handed over the cash, the assailants still took him away into a nearby forest. His brother, who was also seized during the attack, was later abandoned after he became too exhausted to continue, with the kidnappers reportedly tying him to a tree before fleeing.
Authorities say the abductors have since made contact, with reports suggesting a ransom demand of $300,000, though this has not been officially confirmed.
Police have launched intensive search operations across surrounding areas as concerns grow over worsening security in Kwara State. The region has recently experienced a surge in attacks, particularly in rural communities.
Kwara State Commissioner of Police, Adekimi Ojo, confirmed that investigations are ongoing and that the arrested miners are being questioned to determine any possible links to the incident.
The arrests come amid suspicions over the activities of illegal miners operating in the area and their interactions with local authorities and traditional leaders.
Criminal groups known locally as bandits have long been responsible for kidnappings and killings in Nigeria’s north-west. However, recent trends show these groups expanding operations into other regions, including parts of the north-central zone.
The rising insecurity has led to the formation of local vigilante groups tasked with protecting communities, though challenges remain due to limited resources and the difficult terrain often used by attackers.
In addition to bandit activity, extremist groups have also been linked to violence in parts of Kwara. Earlier this year, suspected militants carried out a deadly attack on a rural Muslim community, leaving dozens dead after a dispute with a local leader.
Authorities say armed groups continue to exploit forested border areas to evade security forces, making rescue operations more complex.
Local officials say they are working closely with security agencies and community vigilantes to secure the safe release of the abducted monarch.
The incident has heightened fears among residents, with many calling for stronger security presence and urgent government action to curb the growing threat.
The world we live in has turned into something else. People are so greedynana