Police arrest eight suspected cultists in Kwara

Kwara State Police Command has arrested eight suspected cultists and recovered several firearms and dangerous weapons during a coordinated operation in Ilorin metropolis, marking a significant step in the fight against violent crime in the state. The arrests come just days after a deadly shooting incident in the Post Office area left four people dead, two critically injured, and two others arrested. The police action, carried out by the Anti-Cultism Unit and other tactical teams, was based on credible intelligence and targeted a suspected hideout in the Akuo and Fagba areas of Ilorin.

The suspects, 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), were apprehended during the raid. The operation also led to the recovery of a cache of weapons, including two locally made pistols, one pump-action shotgun, two cut-to-size shotguns, and 25 expended cartridges. These items are considered dangerous and capable of facilitating violent crimes, posing a serious threat to public safety.

According to Adetoun Ejire Adeyemi, spokesperson for the Kwara State Police Command, the investigation is ongoing to determine the level of involvement of each suspect. Authorities are also working to identify other members of the criminal network and apprehend any accomplices who may have fled the scene. Those found guilty will face prosecution under the law, she emphasized, underscoring the command’s commitment to justice and security.

The Commissioner of Police, Adekimi Ojo, credited the success of the operation to the intelligence-led policing strategy championed by the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu. He reaffirmed the command’s resolve to combat cultism and other forms of violent crime through proactive measures and strong public collaboration. The police have urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to aid in maintaining peace and order.

This crackdown follows a surge in violent incidents linked to cult-related activities in the region, prompting heightened security measures. The recovery of weapons and the arrest of key suspects signal a strong response to rising insecurity. As investigations continue, authorities remain focused on dismantling criminal networks and restoring public confidence in the safety of Ilorin metropolis. The operation highlights the ongoing efforts to curb cultism and ensure a safer environment for all residents.