The Ondo State Police Command has intensified its crackdown on cult-related activities with the arrest of three suspected members of a notorious confraternity during a late-night raid in Akure, the state capital.
The command’s spokesperson, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, disclosed in a statement on Sunday that the operation was carried out at a suspected cultism black spot in the Arakale area of the metropolis.
He described the raid as part of the command’s proactive policing strategy aimed at dismantling criminal networks across the state.
According to Jimoh, operatives of the Tactical Intelligence Response Squad acted on credible intelligence on February 10 at about 11 p.m., leading to the arrest of three suspects identified as Damilola, popularly known as “2Gbaski,” 34; Uthman, 29; and Akinwale. The suspects are believed to be members of the Supreme Eiye Confraternity.
A search conducted during the operation resulted in the recovery of one axe, a beret cap, a Retevis walkie-talkie, sachets of tramadol, a substance suspected to be marijuana, and an ice bunker.
Jimoh stated that the suspects are currently in police custody and have made confessional statements admitting their involvement in cult-related activities and other criminal acts within the state.
He added that investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend other possible accomplices, as well as recover additional exhibits. The suspects will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
The command reaffirmed its resolve to eradicate cultism and other criminal activities threatening public safety. Jimoh noted that the state Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, commended the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, for his strategic leadership and continued operational support, which he said has strengthened anti-cultism operations in the state.
Lawal also cautioned youths against engaging in cultism, warning that such activities carry severe consequences and undermine community development.
The police further urged residents to remain vigilant and provide credible, actionable information to support ongoing efforts to combat crime and maintain a peaceful environment across Ondo State.