The Ondo State Police Command has successfully disrupted a planned cult initiation ceremony, leading to the arrest of twenty-five suspected cult members. The operation took place in the town of Uso, located within the Owo Local Government Area of the state.
Intelligence-Led Operation Thwarts Initiation
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, the command acted on credible intelligence provided by a concerned citizen. The tip-off revealed that a cult group was preparing to initiate new members at a specific location in Uso. Acting swiftly on this information, police operatives were mobilised and deployed using intelligence-led tactics to storm the venue and halt the ceremony.
The swift police action resulted in the apprehension of all twenty-five suspects at the scene. Investigations revealed that the arrested individuals were not solely from Ondo State but were drawn from neighbouring states as well. The suspects hail from Ondo, Osun, Edo, and Lagos states, indicating a potentially wider network of the group's operations.
Recoveries and Confessions
During the operation, law enforcement officers recovered key items from the scene. These include a Toyota Highlander Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) and an unregistered Daylong motorcycle. The recovery of the vehicle suggests the suspects may have travelled from different locations to attend the initiation.
DSP Jimoh confirmed that all arrested suspects are currently in police custody and have confessed to their involvement in cult-related activities. The police spokesperson stated that the suspects will be formally charged to court once investigations are concluded.
Police Vow Sustained Fight Against Cultism
The State Commissioner of Police, CP Adebowale Lawal, commended the officers involved for their prompt response and professional conduct during the raid. He reaffirmed the command's unwavering commitment to eradicating cultism across Ondo State, promising that no stone will be left unturned in this sustained fight.
CP Lawal also acknowledged the support of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, in the ongoing efforts to ensure security. In a direct message to the youth, the Commissioner warned against the allure of cult groups, stating clearly that there is no gain in such acts, which only lead to grave consequences.
The police boss reassured residents of Ondo State of the command's proactive measures to maintain a peaceful and crime-free environment. He further encouraged the public to continue their partnership with the police by providing credible and actionable information to aid security operations, just as was done in this successful case.
