NPF
The Osun State Police Command has intensified its efforts against criminal activities following the arrest of eight suspected cultists and political thugs in separate operations carried out in Ilesa and Osogbo.
The arrests, according to the police, were part of ongoing security measures aimed at preventing violence, disrupting criminal networks, and protecting residents across the state.
In a statement issued on Sunday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Gotan, the Command revealed that the suspects were apprehended by operatives of the Anti-Cultism Unit after receiving credible intelligence reports.
The first operation took place on June 17, 2026, at about 6:00 p.m. in the Iloro area of Ilesa. Police officers arrested a 30-year-old suspect identified as Abiola Osobu Michael, popularly known as “Small.”
During interrogation, the suspect reportedly admitted to being a member of the Eiye confraternity. The police recovered several items from him, including an axe, a live cartridge, a blue cap bearing a cult symbol, and six other caps suspected to be linked to the group.
Another operation was later carried out in Osogbo on June 19, 2026, around 1:00 a.m. in the Sasa area, leading to the arrest of seven additional suspects.
The suspects arrested include Afolabi Samson (29), also known as Elesi; Ojute Imoleayo (28); Jimoh Olayinka (48); Oluwasesin Niyi (40); Robin Akeem (19); Robin Selim (19); and Nurudeen Kafayat (39).
The police confirmed that investigations are ongoing and efforts have been intensified to apprehend other suspects who escaped during the operation.
“Effort is ongoing to arrest the other fleeing suspect(s) for prosecution. Suspects will be charged to court upon completion of investigation,” the Command stated.
Reacting to the development, Commissioner of Police Ibrahim Gotan urged parents and guardians to pay closer attention to the activities and associations of young people.
He advised youths to avoid cult-related activities and focus on productive engagements that contribute positively to society.
The Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining peace and security in Osun State, warning criminal elements that operations against cultism, violence, and other forms of crime would continue.
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