The State Security Service (SSS) has intercepted and detained a medical doctor allegedly supplying essential drugs to kidnappers operating across parts of Kwara State.

A statement posted on the official social media handles of the service on Friday, said the doctor, whose identity was not revealed, was nabbed in the Jebba axis after intelligence reports linked him to transporting medical supplies from Sokoto State to criminals hiding in forests in Kwara State.

“The Department of State Service has taken into custody a medical doctor who was ferrying drugs from Sokoto to kidnappers in parts of Kwara State,” the statement said.

The statement noted that criminals operating in the state had become desperate for medical care having sustained wounds in recent encounters with security forces.

“The secret service says the criminal gangs appear desperate for medical care following gunshot wounds sustained in encounters with security forces. So, we are advising improved security measures in health facilities in thickly forested areas which the kidnappers may target,” it added.

Armed bandits had intensified attacks in some local governments of the state especially Edu, Ifelodun and Ekiti, prompting the federal government to strengthen military reinforcement across the state.

Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, on Wednesday, also announced the recruitment of extra 2,600 forest guards to complement the efforts of security agencies in addressing escalating security challenges in the state.