Operatives of the Kwara State Police Command have foiled a plot to murder a resident of Ilorin and steal his vehicle, following a coordinated undercover operation.

In a statement issued on Thursday by the Command’s spokesperson, SP Adetoun Ejire Adeyemi, the police confirmed the arrest of one Abdulwahab Ahmad, alleged mastermind of the crime.

According to the statement, the incident began on November 10 when one Abdulazeez Ishaq of Gerewu, Ilorin, reported that a man identified as Adekoya Opeyemi, popularly known as Justice, had confessed to being hired to kill him and dispossess him of his Honda Accord (2013 model).

The statement added:

“Acting on Abdulwahab’s directive, Adekoya was instructed to tie the victim, lock him inside the boot of his car and drive to the Unity area of Ilorin. Abdulwahab was expected to take delivery of the car and proceed to Ibadan with the victim still in the vehicle.

“Following the report, operatives tactically advised the complainant to cooperate as surveillance was mounted. The suspect was arrested at the agreed location while attempting to take possession of the vehicle, thereby thwarting the planned robbery and murder.”

Kwara Police Commissioner, Adekimi Ojo, commended the officers for what he described as exemplary professionalism. He urged residents to stay alert and continue to provide credible information to security agencies.

He also praised the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, for “visionary leadership” that continues to enhance operational efficiency across police commands nationwide.