The Kano State Police Command has announced the arrest of two prime suspects in connection with the brutal assault and armed robbery of Nigerian rapper Keshinro Ololade, popularly known as Lil Kesh.
The suspects, identified as Mathew Adewole, 25, and Mukhtar Muhammad, 31, were arrested at Na’ibawa Quarters, Kano, on September 11, 2025, following weeks of coordinated, intelligence-led operations.
According to police investigations, the incident occurred on August 19, 2025, at Lil Kesh’s residence in Bera Estate, Chevron, Lagos.
Adewole, in his confessional statement, admitted to leading the attack that left the popular artist with a deep neck wound, an injury police have described as an attempted murder.
The attackers reportedly forced Lil Kesh to transfer ₦2.12 million from his bank account into Muhammad’s account before fleeing the scene. The assault sparked widespread outrage on social media, with fans and colleagues calling for justice and improved security for Nigerian entertainers.
Confirming the arrests, the Command’s spokesperson, SP Abdullahi Haruna, said the breakthrough was the result of robust intelligence gathering and community collaboration.
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“The Kano State Police Command has achieved a significant breakthrough in a recent case of armed robbery and attempted murder, thanks to its robust intelligence and community collaboration,” Haruna stated.
He explained that the arrests were carried out in line with the directive of the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, who has ordered tighter intelligence operations to curb violent crime across the country.
Following their arrest, the suspects have been handed over to the Lagos State Police Command for further investigation and eventual prosecution.
Kano State Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, commended the operatives for their swift action and also thanked members of the public for their cooperation, noting that timely information played a crucial role in tracking the culprits.
“This is an important step towards bringing the perpetrators of this heinous crime to justice. We appreciate the public for working closely with law enforcement to make our communities safer,” Bakori said.
The development has sparked relief among fans of Lil Kesh, who have been anxiously following updates on the case.
Many have praised the police for their quick response, while others are calling for stricter penalties for violent crimes targeting public figures.
Lil Kesh, who is currently recovering, has yet to release a statement on the arrests, but sources close to the rapper say he is focused on regaining his health and is grateful for the support of his fans.
The case is expected to move to court in the coming weeks as prosecutors prepare charges of armed robbery and attempted murder against the suspects.
