Operatives of the Kwara State Police Command have arrested eight suspected cultists and recovered a cache of firearms and dangerous weapons during a series of intelligence-led operations across Ilorin, the state capital.
The arrests were carried out by personnel of the Anti-Cultism Unit working alongside other tactical teams following reports of suspected cult-related activities in parts of the metropolis.
In a statement issued on Friday, the Police Public Relations Officer, Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, said security operatives stormed identified hideouts in the Akuo and Fagba areas of Ilorin, leading to the apprehension of eight suspects believed to be linked to cult activities.
Those arrested were identified as Ismail Sodiq, 35; Ibrahim Saheed, 26; Feyikemi Odoje, 28; Ishola Faisat, 23; Abubakar Zainab, 22; Azeez Olarenwaju, 27; Soliu Ibrahim, 22; and Abdulbasit Abdulkadir, 24.
According to the police, a substantial quantity of weapons and other items considered incriminating were recovered during the operation.
Among the exhibits seized were two locally fabricated pistols, a pump-action shotgun, two cut-to-size shotguns, 25 expended cartridges and several other dangerous weapons.
The command said the outcome of the operation reflects its determination to dismantle criminal networks and curb cult-related violence in the state.
“The arrests and recoveries underscore the Command’s commitment to denying criminal elements the opportunity to operate, while strengthening ongoing efforts to rid the state of cultism and other forms of violent criminality,” the statement read.
Police authorities disclosed that investigations have been expanded to establish the specific roles played by each suspect, uncover the full extent of the alleged network and track down other individuals who may still be at large.
“Those found culpable will be prosecuted in accordance with the law,” the police said.
Commenting on the operation, the Commissioner of Police in Kwara State, Adekimi Ojo, credited the success to the intelligence-driven policing framework introduced by the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu.
He reaffirmed the command’s resolve to sustain efforts against cultism and other violent crimes through proactive security measures, intelligence gathering and continued cooperation with residents of the state.
(Ripples)
