AUTHORITIES in Kogi State say they have uncovered a disturbing supply chain involving local vendors who allegedly provide essential resources including food, water and petrol to kidnapping gangs operating in forest hideouts across the state.
In a statement on Sunday, Kingsley Fanwo, the state commissioner for information, said the revelations followed recent security operations across Kabba/Bunu, Ijumu, Yagba East and Yagba West local government areas, which were launched in response to an uptick in kidnapping cases.
Among the incidents that sparked the crackdown were the murder of a retired army officer from Odo-Ape and the abduction of a prominent farmer from Ponyan. Several abductees have since been rescued during the operation, Fanwo said.
He also confirmed the arrest of Babatunde Aledare, a resident of Ayetoro Kiri, who allegedly acted as an informant to the kidnappers. Aledare’s confession reportedly helped identify other collaborators and led to multiple arrests in the last 48 hours.
“Evidence points to some bread sellers and sachet water factories supplying food and water directly to kidnappers in forest hideouts,” Fanwo said.
According to the commissioner, the items were often transported via commercial motorcyclists who served as couriers between vendors and armed groups.
“Some filling stations were also said to have sold petrol in containers for delivery to the criminals.
“This network has allowed kidnapping gangs to remain embedded in remote areas for extended periods, making them harder to dislodge,” Fanwo added.
He also raised concerns over the death of Samson Enietan, described as a major informant whose activities were recently exposed. While initial reports suggested suicide, the state government now suspects he may have been killed by fellow conspirators fearing further exposure.
In response to the growing threat, Fanwo warned that anyone found aiding kidnapping activities directly or indirectly would face the full force of the law.
“No one, regardless of their status, will be spared if found guilty,” he said, urging residents and businesses to stop enabling criminal networks either out of fear, profit, or ignorance.
