Osun Police Arrest Cultists Ede North: Weapons Seized

• The Osun State Police Command arrested two suspected cultists in Ede North following a distress call and an ambush on October 19.
• One suspect, a member of the Aye cult group, was found with a locally made gun, while another, from the Eiye Confraternity, possessed a battle axe and charms.
• Separately, 14 individuals were charged to court after coordinated raids on criminal black spots in Osogbo, initially leading to 37 arrests.
• DSP Abiodun Ojelabi confirmed these operations, reiterating the command's commitment to combating cultism and unlawful firearm possession.
• The police urged public vigilance and prompt reporting of suspicious activities to ensure public safety.

The police operatives professionally repelled the assault, leading to the arrest of one suspect who was found in possession of a locally made cut-to-size gun.

The Osun State Police Command has recently escalated its efforts against criminal elements, leading to the apprehension of multiple individuals suspected of cultism and other illicit activities across the state. These operations, detailed in a statement issued by DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, the Police Public Relations Officer, on a recent Friday, underscore the command's resolve to enhance public safety and order. The actions include a significant confrontation in Ede North and a series of coordinated raids targeting criminal hideouts in Osogbo.

The command's proactive stance follows a period of heightened vigilance, culminating in the successful disruption of suspected cultist activities. This focused approach aims to dismantle criminal networks and recover dangerous weapons that pose a threat to communities. The recent arrests highlight the ongoing commitment of the Osun Police to address security challenges head-on.

A specific incident on October 19, around 12:30 pm, saw police detectives responding to a distress call concerning an attack by suspected cultists on Laoye Street in Ede North Local Government Area. This situation, which generated public panic and threatened safety, prompted an immediate police deployment. Upon arrival, the officers faced an ambush, with armed cultists opening fire on them.

The police operatives professionally repelled the assault, leading to the arrest of one suspect who was found in possession of a locally made cut-to-size gun. This individual sustained a minor gunshot injury to his right thigh during the encounter and received immediate medical attention. Subsequent interrogation revealed the suspect's affiliation with the Aye cult group. A further search of the cordoned-off crime scene resulted in the arrest of a second individual, who was found with a yellow battle axe and suspected charms. This second suspect confessed to being a member of the Eiye Confraternity. The Osun State Police Command is actively pursuing other members of these suspected cult groups who fled the scene and is working to recover additional weapons.

In a separate but related operation, the Osun State Police Command conducted extensive raids on identified black spots and suspected criminal hideouts throughout Osogbo. These targeted locations included Ode-Oga, Gbonmi, Popo, Isale-Aro, Oja-Oba, Allie, and Orisunmibare. Initially, 37 individuals were taken into custody during these coordinated sweeps.

Following thorough profiling, 23 of these individuals were released without charge. However, preliminary interrogations and findings linked the remaining 14 suspects to various alleged criminal activities. These offenses encompass extortion, thuggery, illicit drug-related activities, and conduct deemed capable of instigating terror and panic among residents in the affected communities. All 14 suspects have since been formally charged in court.

DSP Abiodun Ojelabi reiterated the Osun State Police Command's unwavering commitment to combating cultism, the unlawful possession of firearms, and other violent crimes across the state. He issued a stern warning to residents against engaging in any actions that could endanger lives or disrupt public peace, emphasizing that the command would relentlessly pursue justice for perpetrators of criminal activities.

The police spokesperson also urged members of the public to maintain vigilance and promptly report any suspicious movements or criminal acts to the nearest police station or through established emergency channels. This call for community cooperation is crucial in the ongoing efforts to ensure a safer environment for all citizens. The command's actions demonstrate a clear intent to maintain law and order and deter criminal elements.

This report signals intensified police operations against cultism, unlawful possession of firearms, and other criminal activities in Osun State, specifically Ede North and Osogbo. Criminal defense lawyers should anticipate increased arrests and charges related to these offenses, requiring vigilance in advising clients on potential exposures and defense strategies.

Source: Original reporting via Agency Report