Dare Babalola
The Kwara State Police Command has denied allegations of unlawful detention of a teenage girl in Arandun community, Irepodun Local Government Area, describing the claims circulating on social media as misleading and a misrepresentation of facts.
The clarification was contained in a statement issued on Monday by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, amid public reactions triggered by viral videos showing the minor at a police station and protests by some residents.
According to the command, the incident is linked to a reported case of housebreaking and theft received on April 30, 2026, at the Arandun Police Division.
It explained that the principal suspect, identified as Timothy Aransiola, a 19-year-old male, had been placed on the division’s watchlist and fled after the report was lodged.
The police said preliminary investigations later indicated that the suspect was being sheltered and assisted to evade arrest by his younger sister, identified as Esther Aransiola, a 16-year-old female.
“On 30th April 2026, at about 1600 hours, a case of housebreaking and theft was reported at the Arandun Police Division. The prime suspect, Timothy Aransiola, who had been on the division’s watchlist, absconded following the report,” the statement said.
It added that intelligence gathered showed the teenager allegedly aided her brother in avoiding arrest, prompting police action.
The command stated that the minor was taken into custody on May 1, 2026, on suspicion of aiding and abetting a suspect with the intent to obstruct lawful arrest.
“She was duly cautioned, and her statement was taken in line with established procedures. She was subsequently released to her guardian on bond,” it added.
The police stressed that at no point was the minor unlawfully detained, insisting that due process was followed in handling the matter.
It described the narrative circulating online as inaccurate and capable of misleading the public, urging residents to disregard the viral claims and avoid spreading unverified information that could heighten tension in the community.
The command further disclosed that efforts were ongoing to track down and apprehend the fleeing principal suspect to ensure he is brought to justice.
Reaffirming its position, the police said it remains committed to upholding the rule of law, protecting the rights of citizens, and maintaining transparency in all investigations and operations.
