Suspected drug supplier to bandits arrested in Yagba West by Joint Task Force

The Joint Security Task Force (JTF) in Yagba West Local Government Area has arrested another suspected supplier of illicit drugs allegedly meant for criminal elements operating within the area.

The suspect, identified as Owoloja Femi, a native of Ejiba and reportedly the Chairman of the Okada Riders Association (Ejiba Branch), was apprehended around 7:30 p.m. on Saturday during a routine patrol in Odo-Eri, along Saminaka Road.

According to security sources, Owoloja was caught attempting to flee the scene after his accomplices, who had already loaded two cartons of suspected hard drugs onto a motorcycle, escaped upon sighting the operatives. The suspect was allegedly on his way to deliver the drugs to bandits believed to be hiding in nearby forests.

Preliminary investigations revealed that Owoloja had sourced the drugs from a chemist shop in Egbe. Authorities also recovered ₦600,000 from him, suspected to be either proceeds or operational funds for the illicit transaction.

He is currently in custody as further investigations are underway to trace the full network of suppliers, sponsors, and collaborators fueling criminal activities in the region.

Reacting to the arrest, the Executive Chairman of Yagba West Local Government and Chairman of Kogi State ALGON, Hon. Tosin Olokun, lauded the efforts of the JTF. He emphasized the local government’s unwavering commitment to rooting out crime and maintaining peace and safety across all communities.

Hon. Olokun also issued a stern warning to individuals aiding or collaborating with criminal groups, stating that all suspects found culpable will be handed over to relevant authorities for prosecution.

The arrest marks a continued effort by security agencies to dismantle criminal logistics networks in Yagba West and its environs.