Oyo Police Parade 15 Cult Suspects

The Oyo State Police Command has paraded 15 suspected cultists and armed robbers, showcasing their commitment to tackling criminal activities across the state. The announcement was made on Monday by the Commissioner of Police, Ayodele Sonubi, at the command’s headquarters in Eleyele, Ibadan.

Weapons and Evidence Recovered

The police recovered a range of dangerous weapons, including three dane guns, one locally-made pistol, a long-barrel gun, three cutlasses, and five cult-themed jackets. Two vehicles and hard drugs were also seized during the operation. These items serve as critical evidence in the ongoing investigations.

Locations of Cult Activities

The Commissioner highlighted several hotspots of cult-related activities, including Apete, Abayomi (Iwo Road axis), Ijokodo, Moniya, Monatan, Ojoo, Samonda, and Sango. These areas have reportedly seen an increase in cult violence and retaliatory attacks as rival groups clash for dominance.

Strategic Interventions

Sonubi emphasized the importance of intelligence-led interventions to curb cultism and protect public safety. He stated, “Regular intelligence raids will prevent further bloodshed and disrupt the operations of these dangerous groups.” The Commissioner further explained that recent investigations have revealed that most cult-related violence is retaliatory and motivated by a desire for territorial dominance.

Recent Arrests

In a notable operation last Friday, the anti-robbery section of the Criminal Intelligence Department arrested three members of the notorious “Eiye” confraternity in the Kajorepo/Ojoo area. The group’s alleged leader, involved in several violent operations, was apprehended at his residence. Items recovered included a red cloth, a blue beret with the confraternity’s insignia, and a cutlass.

On Saturday, another raid in the Ijokodo area led to the arrest of three suspected cultists. A locally-made gun and a dane gun were found hidden in the ceiling of their room.

Public Appeal

The Commissioner called on parents, community leaders, and stakeholders to discourage youth involvement in cultism. He warned that the police would continue to enforce strict measures to maintain peace and order in the state. “Anyone attempting to disrupt the state’s tranquility will face the full wrath of the law,” he added.

Suspect’s Confession

One of the suspects admitted to being a cultist but claimed to have renounced his involvement in 2020. However, he confessed to participating in the initiation of a new member back in 2018.