The Kwara State Police Command has recorded a significant breakthrough in its ongoing campaign against cultism and violent crimes with the arrest of four suspected cultists, including an alleged leader of the proscribed Eiye Confraternity, during a coordinated operation in Ijagbo, Oyun Local Government Area of the state.
The arrests were made following a targeted raid conducted by operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) who acted on credible intelligence regarding the activities of suspected cult members and other criminal elements allegedly terrorising residents of the community. The operation formed part of the command’s broader strategy to dismantle criminal networks and restore public confidence in security across the state.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Police Public Relations Officer, Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, disclosed that the operation was carried out on Thursday after weeks of intelligence gathering and surveillance. According to her, security operatives stormed identified criminal hideouts in Ijagbo, leading to the successful apprehension of the suspects without incident.
The police spokesperson noted that preliminary investigations revealed that one of the arrested suspects is believed to be a key figure and alleged leader of the outlawed Eiye Confraternity within the area. She explained that the suspects are currently assisting investigators with useful information aimed at uncovering the activities of the cult group and identifying other members still at large.
The command further stated that the operation underscores its unwavering commitment to combating cult-related violence, armed robbery, and other forms of organised crime that threaten the safety and wellbeing of residents. Security agencies have in recent years intensified efforts against cult groups whose activities have often been linked to violent clashes, intimidation, and other criminal offences in several communities.
Residents of Ijagbo and surrounding communities have welcomed the development, describing the arrests as a positive step toward improving security and curbing the influence of criminal gangs in the area. Many expressed hope that sustained law enforcement operations would help deter criminal activities and promote peaceful coexistence within the community.
The Kwara State Police Command assured members of the public that investigations are ongoing and that all those found culpable would be prosecuted in accordance with the law. It also urged residents to remain vigilant and continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies, emphasizing that community cooperation remains vital in the collective effort to rid the state of criminal elements.
The latest arrests highlight the command’s determination to maintain law and order across Kwara State while reinforcing its resolve to ensure that individuals involved in cultism and other unlawful activities are brought to justice. Authorities reiterated that security operations would continue across identified flashpoints as part of measures to guarantee the safety of lives and property throughout the state.
