The Osun State Police Command has arrested six suspected cultists during intelligence-led raids on criminal hideouts in Osogbo, the State capital, as security operatives intensify efforts to dismantle criminal networks in the State.
The police said preliminary investigations linked the suspects to the Eiye Confraternity and a suspected criminal gang allegedly terrorising residents around Mackay Junction, Osogbo.
The arrests were announced on Tuesday in a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi.
The suspects were identified as Ajibade Lateef, 21; Olaniyi Kabiru, 27; Ifaleke Ifedeji, 18; Tajudeen Wasiu, 35; Abideen Babatunde, 35; and Opeyemi Lukman, 18.
Items recovered during the raids included suspected criminal charms, illicit drugs and cash believed to be proceeds from drug-related activities, according to the police.
The command said the suspects had been charged to court, while investigations continued to track down other individuals allegedly involved in cultism, drug-related offences and other criminal activities across the state.
Commissioner of Police Ibrahim Zungura issued a stern warning to cultists, drug dealers and other suspected criminals, declaring that the state would not provide a refuge for criminal activities.
“Osun State will not serve as a safe haven for cultists, drug peddlers, or any criminal elements,” the command said.
Zungura warned individuals involved in criminal activities to desist or face the full weight of the law.
The police also urged parents, guardians, community leaders, landlords and other stakeholders to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements or criminal activities to the nearest police station or through established emergency channels.
Youths were equally advised to shun cultism, illicit drugs and criminal associations, which could expose them to prosecution and jeopardise their future.
The command said intelligence-led raids would continue at identified black spots and criminal hideouts in Osogbo and other parts of Osun State as part of efforts to curb criminal activities and sustain peace.
The police did not disclose the date of the suspects’ court appearance or provide further details about the charges filed against them.
