Kwara Govt begins crackdown on street begging after arrest of suspected bandit disguised as beggar

The Kwara State Government has intensified its crackdown on street begging following the arrest of a suspected bandit who allegedly disguised himself as a beggar in Igbaja, Ifelodun Local Government Area of the state. 

The Commissioner for Social Development, Hajia Mariam Nnafatima Imam, disclosed the development while addressing officers during a monitoring and enforcement exercise in the Ilorin metropolis.

In a statement issued on Saturday, February 14, 2026, by the Ministry’s Press Secretary, Rasheedat Shodunke, the commissioner described the incident as a serious security breach capable of undermining public safety. 

“The Kwara State Government has launched a full-scale enforcement operation against street begging across the state, following growing security concerns triggered by the recent arrest of a suspected bandit who allegedly disguised himself as a beggar in Igbaja, Ifelodun Local Government Area,” the statement read. 

According to the Commissioner, the Igbaja incident has exposed how street begging can be exploited by criminal elements to infiltrate communities, gather intelligence, and threaten public safety. 

“This is no longer just a social issue; it is now a serious security concern. We cannot allow criminals to hide under the guise of begging to endanger our people,” she said. 

Hajia Imam stressed that while the state government remains committed to supporting vulnerable persons through rehabilitation, skills acquisition, and empowerment programmes, it will not tolerate the use of street begging as a cover for illegal activities. 

She warned parents, guardians, and sponsors against sending children and dependants to beg on the streets, describing the practice as dangerous and exploitative. 

“Children and vulnerable people are being exposed to abuse, trafficking, and criminal networks. This is unacceptable in a responsible society,” she added. 

The Commissioner urged residents of Kwara State to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious persons or activities to security agencies and relevant government authorities. 

She also advised the public to stop giving alms on the streets and instead channel their support through government-approved social intervention programmes and credible humanitarian organisations that can properly care for the needy.