Police deny unlawful detention of 16-year-old girl in Kwara

The Kwara State Police Command has rejected claims that it unlawfully detained a teenage girl in Arandun, a community in Irepodun Local Government Area, insisting that reports circulating online give a distorted account of events.

In a statement issued on Monday, police spokesperson Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi said the action taken followed due process and was linked to an ongoing criminal investigation.

Public concern had grown after videos surfaced on social media showing the girl at a police facility, prompting some residents to stage protests over what they believed was an unjust arrest.

According to the police, the incident originated from a housebreaking and theft complaint lodged on 30 April at the Arandun Police Division. Officers said the main suspect, identified as 19-year-old Timothy Aransiola, fled after the report and had already been under surveillance.

Investigators later alleged that the suspect’s younger sister, Esther Aransiola, aged 16, assisted him in evading arrest. On that basis, she was taken in on 1 May for questioning over suspected obstruction.

Police stated that she was cautioned and interviewed in line with standard procedure before being released to a guardian on bail.

The command maintained that her detention was lawful and brief, dismissing suggestions in the viral footage that she had been held improperly. It described the circulating narrative as misleading and capable of fuelling unnecessary tension.

Authorities added that efforts are continuing to track down the fleeing suspect.

The police also appealed to the public to verify information before sharing it, warning that misinformation could inflame the situation. They reiterated their commitment to lawful conduct, protection of rights, and openness in their operations.