Police Raid Cultists’ Initiation Ceremony in Ogun, Arrest 30 Suspects

Police Raid Cultists Initiation Ceremony in Ogun, Arrest 30 Suspects

Ogun State Police Command has successfully disrupted a suspected cultist initiation procession in Isara-Remo, arresting 30 male suspects in a coordinated operation on Tuesday, June 16, 2026. The suspects were apprehended at an uncompleted building where they were allegedly consuming alcoholic substances, chanting, and engaging in initiation rites. The operation, carried out by operatives from the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) in collaboration with detectives from Isara Area Command and Isara Division, was based on credible intelligence that a dangerous unlawful gathering was taking place.

The arrested individuals include Muiz Olawale, Adeniji Akinwale, Ajayi Victor, Damilola Oluwasegun, Adewale Olayemi, Aminu Rahmon, Olodudu Ademola, Matthew Imoleayo, Adenle Habeb, Lekan Qudus, Olamilekan Ayanleke, Adegbasa Ezekiel, Ibukun Adeniyi, Abiodun Babatunde, Oshofolahan Michael, Salau Adedeji, Benjamin Kehinde, Magnus Elijah, Oluwadamilare Samson, Oyebowale Ojutona, Abiodun Makanjuola, Idowu Toheeb, Olamide Sunday, Malik Also, Abdullahi Damilola, Israel Ayomikun, Oyeledun Ezekiel, Adelabu Imoleayo, Ajayi Oluwasegun, and Olaawun Faith. All were taken into custody following the tactical intervention by police forces.

During the operation, four vehicles were recovered, which were allegedly abandoned as the suspects attempted to flee. Other items seized included one jack knife, one local drum, one “sekere” (rattle), and several bottles suspected to have been used for alcohol consumption. These items are believed to have been used during the unlawful gathering and initiation rites.

DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, the Police Spokesperson, confirmed the details of the arrest on Thursday, stating that the suspects have been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Abeokuta for further investigation. He emphasized that efforts are ongoing to apprehend other suspects who managed to escape during the operation. Babaseyi noted that the operation was a direct response to intelligence reports and showcased the Command’s commitment to intelligence-led policing.

The State Commissioner of Police, Bode Ojajuni, praised the professionalism and swift response of the operatives involved. He described the operation as a clear demonstration of the Command’s zero-tolerance policy toward cultism and violent crime. Ojajuni urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious gatherings or criminal activities to the nearest police station. He stressed that cultism and related criminal behaviors will not be tolerated in Ogun State.

This crackdown highlights the increasing efforts by law enforcement to dismantle criminal networks and prevent the spread of cult-related violence. The successful operation sends a strong message to would-be offenders and reinforces public confidence in the police’s ability to maintain security. Authorities remain committed to ensuring peace and order across the state.