The Police Command in Ondo State has arrested three suspected cult members during a late-night raid on a black spot in the Arakale area of Akure metropolis.
The operation, which also led to the recovery of weapons and suspected hard drugs, was carried out as part of ongoing proactive policing efforts in Akure and its environs.
The command’s spokesperson, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, disclosed this in a statement issued on Sunday, noting that the suspects were apprehended on Tuesday at about 11:00 p.m. by operatives of the Tactical Intelligence Responses Squad (TIRS) following credible intelligence on cult-related activities in the area.
According to Jimoh, the suspects – Damilola, also known as “2Gbaski,” aged 34; Uthman, aged 29; and Akinwale – are believed to be members of the Supreme Eiye Confraternity.
Items recovered during a thorough search include one axe, one beret cap, one Retevis walkie-talkie, sachets of tramadol, a substance suspected to be marijuana and an ice bunker.
“The suspects are currently in custody and have made confessional statements confirming their involvement in cult-related activities and other criminal acts within the state,” Jimoh said.
He added that investigations were ongoing to identify other accomplices and recover additional exhibits, after which the suspects would be charged to court.
The spokesperson reaffirmed the command’s resolve to dismantle cult networks and rid Akure and other parts of the state of criminal elements.
He said the Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, commended the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, for his strategic leadership and continued operational support, which has strengthened anti-cultism operations in the state.
Lawal also urged youths to shun cultism and other unlawful activities, warning that such involvement only leads to severe consequences.
He further reassured residents of Akure and the wider Ondo State of the command’s commitment to maintaining peace and security, while encouraging the public to provide credible information to aid crime-fighting efforts.
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