Police deny unlawful detention of minor in Kwara community

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The Kwara State Police Command has refuted allegations of unlawful detention of a minor in Arandun community, Irepodun Local Government Area of the state, describing the claims as misleading.

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The command made the clarification in a statement issued on Monday by its spokesman, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police.

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This development comes amid public outrage sparked by videos circulating on social media showing the minor at the police station, with some residents protesting her arrest.n

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Explaining the circumstances behind the video, the command explained that the incident stemmed from a case of housebreaking and theft reported on April 30.

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“On 30th April 2026, at about 1600 hours, a case of housebreaking and theft was reported at the Arandun Police Division.

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“The prime suspect, Timothy Aransiola (male, 19 years), who had been on the division’s watchlist, absconded following the report.

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“Subsequent intelligence revealed that the suspect was being harboured and assisted to evade by one Esther Aransiola, ‘F’, 16 years, a sister of the suspect,” the statement read.

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The police added that the girl was taken into custody on May 1, 2026, for allegedly aiding and abetting the suspect with intent to obstruct lawful arrest.

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“She was duly cautioned, and her statement was taken in line with established procedures, and she was released to her guardian on bond,” the statement added.

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The command emphasised that the minor was not detained unlawfully, contrary to claims in the viral video, describing the narrative as inaccurate and intended to misinform the public.

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It said efforts were ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspect and bring him to justice.

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The police urged members of the public to disregard the circulating content and refrain from spreading unverified information capable of inciting tension.

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It reiterated its commitment to upholding the rule of law, protecting citizens’ rights, and maintaining transparency in its operations.

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