The Osun State Police Command has arrested fourteen suspects in various parts of the state and recovered firearms in its ongoing efforts to rid the state of criminal elements.
The Command said the operation is in full compliance with the directives of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, towards safe environs in preparation for the forthcoming 2027 general elections. The Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Zungura, had directed all Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers and tactical teams to embark on sustained intelligence raids of black spots within their Area of Responsibilities.
On 25th October, 2026, operatives of the Command embarked on a coordinated raid of identified black spots and suspected criminal hideouts at Ode-Oga, Gbonmi, Popo, Isale-Aro, Oja-Oba, Allie and Orisunmibare all within the state leading to the arrest of suspected individuals.
During the operation, a total of thirty seven individuals were arrested and subsequently subjected to profiling and screening. Following the exercise, twenty three persons were released unconditionally, while fourteen suspects were retained for further investigation.
The suspects retained are Oluranti Fatai, male, 40 years, Suraju Adebayo, 45 years, Okunola Sodiq, 27 years, Ibrahim Sodiq, 35 years, Ganiyu Sikiru, 28 years, Moshood Adeleke, 40 years, Kayoye Oguntayo, 22 years, Alaudeen Samad, 22 years, Ridwan Adegbola, 27 years, Busari Hammad, 30 years, Abiodun Fiyiola, 29 years, Adeleke Olawale, 28 years, Salaudeen Mujib, 30 years and Olaposi Afeez, 22 years.
However, preliminary interrogation and findings reportedly linked the suspects to alleged criminal activities, including extortion, thuggery, illicit drug related activities, and conduct capable of causing terror and panic among innocent residents of the affected communities. The suspects have since been charged before a competent court.
Equally, the Command through sustained intelligence arrested two suspected cultists and recovered locally made firearm in connection with a violent cult related clash at Laoye Street, Ede North Local Government Area of Osun State.
On 19th October 2026, at about 1230 hours, a team of detectives responded to a distress call reporting that suspected cultists were attacking one another and firing sporadically, thereby causing panic and posing a serious threat to public safety in the area.
Upon arrival, the police operatives were reportedly ambushed by armed suspected cultists in their numbers, who opened fire on the team. Despite the fierce attack, the operatives successfully arrested one suspect, Salaudeen Mujib, who was found in possession of a locally made cut to size firearm. The suspect sustained a minor gunshot injury to his right thigh during the incident and was attended to accordingly.
During interrogation, the suspect reportedly confessed to being a member of the Aye cult group. Subsequently, following a grid search of the already cordoned off area, the police operatives arrested another suspect, Olaposi Afeez. One yellow battle axe and some local charms were recovered from him. The suspect also reportedly confessed to being a member of the Eiye confraternity.
The Command has intensified efforts to apprehend other fleeing members of the suspected cult groups and recover any additional weapons that may be in their possession.
The Commissioner of Police, Osun State Command, CP Ibrahim Zungura, reiterates the Command’s commitment to combating cultism, unlawful possession of firearms, and other violent crimes across the state. He warns individuals and groups involved in cult related activities to desist from acts capable of endangering lives and disrupting public peace, as the Command will not relent in bringing perpetrators of criminal activities to justice.
The Command also urges members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements and criminal activities to the nearest police station or through established police emergency channels.
The Osun State Police Command remains committed to protecting lives and property and ensuring the safety and security of all residents.
