135 suspected cultists arrested in Lagos police raids
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Lagos State Police arrested 135 suspected cultists and seized 26 firearms in coordinated raids.
- The operation targeted criminal hideouts following intelligence about planned attacks during a cult anniversary period.
- Police also recovered dangerous weapons, cult insignia, charms, and illicit substances, with investigations ongoing.
The Lagos State Police Command has apprehended 135 suspected cultists and confiscated 26 firearms during coordinated raids across the state. The operation, which took place on Wednesday, involved various police units, including Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, Tactical Commanders, and the Violent Crime Response Unit.
These raids were prompted by intelligence reports indicating that rival cult groups were planning attacks around the July 7 cult anniversary and initiation period. In addition to the firearms, authorities seized 16 dangerous weapons such as cutlasses, battle axes, daggers, and knives. The recovered items also included cult insignia, assorted charms, alcoholic beverages, substances believed to be Indian hemp, and other illicit drugs, along with six mobile phones.
Investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend other members of the criminal gangs. He added that all suspects would be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
SP Benjamin Hundeyin, the Police Public Relations Officer, stated that investigations are continuing to identify and arrest other members of these criminal gangs. He assured that all suspects would face charges in court once investigations are complete. The command reiterated its dedication to combating cultism and violent crimes, urging residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by providing information to enhance public safety.
The command reaffirmed its commitment to combating cultism and other violent crimes and urged residents to remain vigilant and continue providing useful information to security agencies to enhance public safety.
Originally published by Vanguard. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.