Suspected cultist nabbed as police crack down on gang activity

The Ogun State Police Command says it has taken a suspected cult member into custody after a targeted operation in the Igbesa area of Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government Area.

The suspect, identified as 24-year-old Sulaiman Laja, was arrested by officers who had reportedly been monitoring his movements. Police spokesperson, CSP Omolola Odutola, disclosed the development in a statement issued on Tuesday.

According to the command, officers acting on intelligence trailed Laja to a hideout where he was allegedly attempting to evade detection. A subsequent search of the location led to the recovery of a functional single-barrel firearm, which investigators believe may have been used in criminal activities affecting the community.

Odutola said the arrest marks another milestone in the command’s efforts to curb cult-related violence across the state. She noted that Laja confessed to belonging to the Aiye confraternity and had been linked to several disturbances around Igbesa and surrounding communities.

She added that the suspect has also provided investigators with information on other members of the group who are currently on the run, prompting the launch of a manhunt to track them down.

The police said Laja, along with the recovered weapon, will be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department for further enquiries and prosecution.

The command reassured residents that ongoing operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks would continue until peace and safety are fully restored.