The Oyo State Police Command has arrested 16 suspected cultists, including 14 males and two females, within the premises of The Polytechnic, Ibadan, in a crackdown targeting violent youth groups. The operation, carried out by officers of the command, resulted in the recovery of several items as exhibits, which are now being used as evidence in ongoing investigations. The suspects are believed to be members of the Aiye confraternity, a group linked to multiple acts of violence and criminal activities in the state. The arrests were confirmed in a statement released by the command’s Public Relations Officer, Olayinka Ayanlade, which was made available to DAILY POST on Wednesday night.
According to Ayanlade, the suspects were apprehended while preparing for a critical meeting on the institution’s campus, an act the police view as a potential precursor to violent incidents. The police noted that some of the individuals had been on their watchlist due to alleged involvement in a series of murder cases and other cult-related crimes across Oyo State. The operation underscores the command’s commitment to maintaining security on educational institutions and curbing the influence of cultism among students. The recovered exhibits, though not detailed in the statement, are expected to play a key role in further investigations and possible prosecutions.
The police have not disclosed the exact date of the arrest, but the timing suggests heightened surveillance following recent reports of cult activities in the area. The incident has drawn attention to the persistent challenge of cultism in Nigerian tertiary institutions, particularly in Ibadan, where such groups have been linked to numerous violent confrontations. The command emphasized that investigations are still ongoing and that more details may emerge as the probe progresses. Authorities are also reviewing security measures on the campus to prevent future incidents.
This arrest is part of a broader effort by the Oyo State Police Command to dismantle cult networks operating within the state. The crackdown comes amid growing public concern over student violence and the increasing sophistication of cult operations. While the police have not named specific individuals or provided further details on the suspects’ backgrounds, they have assured the public that all legal procedures will be followed. The case is expected to be forwarded to the appropriate legal authorities for prosecution.
The incident highlights the need for continued collaboration between law enforcement and educational institutions to ensure the safety of students and staff. As the investigation unfolds, the police are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities. This operation marks a significant step in the fight against cultism in Oyo State, and authorities hope it will serve as a deterrent to others involved in similar criminal networks.
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