Police Arrest Five Suspected Eiye Cultists in Ondo Secret Meeting Raid
Operatives from the Nigeria Police Force, Ondo State Command, have apprehended five individuals suspected of belonging to the notorious Eiye confraternity. The arrests occurred during a covert operation targeting a secret gathering in Akungba-Akoko, located within the Akoko South West Local Government Area of the state.
Details of the Arrest and Suspects
The suspects, identified as Dare Adesuye, Joshua Ayeerun, Ojo Omole, Dele Adu, and Idowu Akeju, were taken into custody while chanting slogans associated with cult activities. Akungba-Akoko is a community that hosts Adekunle Ajasin University, adding a layer of concern regarding campus safety and youth involvement in illicit groups.
According to Jimoh Abayomi, the public relations officer for the Ondo State Police Command, vigilant members of the public promptly alerted authorities after observing behaviors indicative of cultism. This tip-off enabled a swift and coordinated response from law enforcement.
Police Response and Investigation
Abayomi confirmed that the operation was executed by the Command's Special Anti-Cultism Squad, which mobilized immediately upon receiving the intelligence. The team tactically surrounded the location and successfully detained the suspects without incident.
Preliminary investigations have established that the individuals are members of the Eiye Confraternity, a secret cult known for its involvement in violent crimes, unlawful assemblies, and disruptions to public order. The suspects are currently in police custody and have provided statements that are aiding the ongoing probe.
Efforts are underway to deepen the investigation, with aims to unravel the broader network of the group, identify additional members, and thwart any planned criminal activities. The police are leveraging the information obtained to ensure a comprehensive crackdown on cult-related operations in the region.
Command's Stance and Public Advisory
Commissioner of Police Adebowale has praised the operatives for their prompt and professional handling of the situation, as well as the community members whose cooperation facilitated the successful raid. He emphasized that community partnership is essential for effective policing and crime prevention.
The Command reiterates its zero-tolerance policy towards cultism and all forms of criminality, vowing to intensify intelligence-driven operations across Ondo State to safeguard residents. Youths are strongly advised to avoid cult-related activities and associations, given the severe and far-reaching consequences involved.
Parents and guardians are encouraged to monitor their wards closely and guide them away from unlawful groups. The police assure the public that the suspects will be prosecuted upon completion of the investigation, with justice pursued to its logical conclusion.
Residents are urged to remain vigilant and continue providing useful information to the police, with assurances of strict confidentiality. This incident underscores the ongoing efforts to combat cultism and enhance security in Ondo State.
