From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
The Kwara State Police Command, has intensified its clampdown on cult-related violence with the arrest of four suspected members of a cult group during a coordinated raid in Ijagbo, Oyun Local Government Area of the state.
The operation, carried out by operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), followed credible intelligence on the activities of suspected cultists and violent criminals operating in the area.
According to the Command, the raid took place recently targeting identified hideouts linked to criminal elements in the community.
During the operation, one Idowu Akorede, a male resident of Ijagbo, was arrested and identified as the alleged leader of the outlawed Eiye Confraternity in the area. Three other suspects were also apprehended in subsequent operations.
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Preliminary investigations reportedly linked the suspects to a criminal network involved in cult activities, armed robbery and other violent crimes, with several complaints from residents about daylight attacks and dispossession of valuables, which had heightened fear in the community.
The suspects were said to have resisted arrest and attacked operatives with broken bottles in an attempt to escape. However, the police said the officers maintained restraint and professionalism while successfully subduing and arresting them without any injuries.
The suspects have since been moved to Ilorin for further interrogation as investigations continue, while efforts are ongoing to track down other fleeing members of the gang.
The Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Ojo Adekimi, psc, mnips, commended the operatives for what he described as their courage and professionalism.
“The Command will not relent in its resolve to rid Kwara State of criminal elements. We remain committed to ensuring the safety of lives and property across all communities,” he said.
He also urged residents to continue supporting the police with timely and credible information that can aid ongoing security operations.
Police Public Relations Officer, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, said the Command is intensifying efforts to dismantle criminal networks and sustain peace in the state.
