The Kwara State Police Command has dismissed allegations of unlawful detention involving a teenage girl in Arandun community, Irepodun Local Government Area, describing the claims circulating on social media as misleading.
The clarification was issued on Monday by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, following public outrage triggered by viral videos showing the minor at a police station and protests from some residents.
According to the command, the incident is linked to an ongoing investigation into a reported case of housebreaking and theft.
The police explained that the case was first reported on April 30, 2026, at the Arandun Police Division.
“On 30th April 2026, at about 1600 hours, a case of housebreaking and theft was reported at the Arandun Police Division,” the statement said.
It added that the main suspect, identified as 19-year-old Timothy Aransiola, had been on the division’s watchlist but fled after the complaint was lodged.
“The prime suspect, Timothy Aransiola, who had been on the division’s watchlist, absconded following the report,” the police stated.
The command further alleged that preliminary investigations indicated that the suspect was being assisted by his 16-year-old sister, identified as Esther Aransiola.
“Subsequent intelligence revealed that the suspect was being harboured and assisted to evade arrest by one Esther Aransiola, female, 16 years, a sister of the suspect,” it explained.
Police said the teenager was taken in on May 1, 2026, for questioning over allegations that she helped the suspect evade arrest.
“She was taken into custody for allegedly aiding and abetting the suspect with intent to obstruct lawful arrest,” the statement added.
The command maintained that the minor was not unlawfully detained, insisting that due process was followed during the investigation.
“She was duly cautioned, her statement was taken in line with established procedures, and she was released to her guardian on bond,” the police said.
The police also described the viral claims of “detention by proxy” as inaccurate and capable of misleading the public, urging residents to disregard them.
Authorities confirmed that efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing principal suspect and ensure he is brought to justice.
The command further appealed for calm and warned against the spread of unverified information that could escalate tensions in the community, reaffirming its commitment to lawful policing and respect for human rights.
