The Osun State Police Command has arrested eight suspected cultists and political thugs in separate operations conducted in Ilesa and Osogbo, the state capital, as part of intensified efforts to combat criminal activities and maintain peace across the state. The arrests, carried out by operatives of the Anti-Cultism Unit, followed intelligence reports of violent and disruptive activities linked to cult groups. The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, disclosed the development in a statement issued on Sunday on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Gotan.
The first arrest took place on June 17, 2026, at approximately 6pm, after police received information that a notorious cultist was terrorising residents in the Iloro community of Ilesa. A patrol team from the Anti-Cultism Unit swiftly responded and apprehended Abiola Osobu Michael, a 30-year-old male known as ‘Small’. During interrogation, the suspect confessed to being a member of the Eiye confraternity. Police recovered an axe, a live cartridge, a blue cap bearing the cult’s logo, and six other caps linked to the group.
On June 19, 2026, at about 1am, another operation was launched in the Sasa area of Osogbo based on intelligence about cultists terrorising the public. Seven additional suspects were arrested during the raid. They include 29-year-old Afolabi Samson (aka Elesi), 28-year-old Ojute Imoleayo, 48-year-old Jimoh Olayinka, 40-year-old Oluwasesin Niyi, 19-year-old Robin Akeem, 19-year-old Robin Selim, and 39-year-old Nurudeen Kafayat, a female. All suspects are currently in custody as investigations continue.
The police command stated that efforts are ongoing to apprehend other suspects who managed to escape during the Osogbo raid. The arrested individuals will be charged to court upon completion of investigations. CP Ibrahim Gotan emphasized the need for parents and guardians to closely monitor their children and wards, urging young people to avoid cultism and instead engage in lawful and productive activities.
The operations reflect the Osun State Police Command’s commitment to restoring order and ensuring public safety. With increasing reports of cult-related violence and political thuggery, these arrests are seen as critical steps toward curbing insecurity in the state. Authorities remain vigilant and are expected to intensify surveillance and crackdowns in high-risk areas moving forward.
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