The Osun State Police Command has arrested six suspected cultists during intelligence-led raids on identified criminal hideouts and black spots across Osogbo, the state capital.
The arrests according to a statement issued by the command spokesperson, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi on Tuesday, followed targeted operations to tackle cultism, drug-related offences and other criminal activities in the state.
The suspects were identified as Ajibade Lateef, 21, Olaniyi Kabiru, 27, Ifaleke Ifedeji, 18, Tajudeen Wasiu, 35, Abideen Babatunde, 35, and Opeyemi Lukman, 18.
The command in the statement said preliminary investigations indicated that the suspects were allegedly members of the Eiye Confraternity.
The police also alleged that the suspects were linked to a notorious criminal gang suspected of terrorising residents and members of the public around the Mackay Junction area of Osogbo.
“Items recovered during the operations included suspected criminal charms, illicit drugs and cash believed to be proceeds from illicit drug activities, according to the command.
“The arrests formed part of sustained efforts to dismantle criminal networks and improve security across Osogbo and other parts of Osun State.
“The suspects had been charged to court, while investigations and operational activities continued to identify and apprehend other individuals allegedly involved in cultism, drug-related offences and related criminal activities,” the statement added.
Commissioner of Police Ibrahim Zungura also reiterated the command’s determination to prevent criminal elements from operating freely in the state and warned that Osun would not be a safe haven for cultists, drug peddlers or other suspected criminals.
“Individuals and groups involved in criminal activities are warned to desist immediately or be prepared to face the full weight of the law,” the command said.
The police urged parents, guardians, community leaders, landlords and other stakeholders to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements or criminal activities to the nearest police station or through established police emergency channels.
The command also advised young people to shun cultism, illicit drugs and criminal associations, warning that involvement in criminal activities could have serious consequences.
“Raids on identified black spots and criminal hideouts would continue until criminal elements were flushed out. The command remained committed to protecting lives and property. We call on residents to cooperate with the police in maintaining peace and security across Osun State,” the statement concluded.