Police arrest eight suspected cultists, recover firearms in Kwara

The Kwara State Police Command has apprehended eight individuals suspected of cultism, seizing firearms and other weapons during coordinated raids across Ilorin. The operation, conducted by the Anti-Cultism Unit and tactical teams, targeted suspected cultist hideouts in the Akuo and Fagba areas based on intelligence.

During the raids, authorities recovered two locally made pistols, a pump-action shotgun, two cut-to-size shotguns, and 25 expended cartridges, alongside other dangerous items. The arrested suspects have been identified as Ismail Sodiq, 35; Ibrahim Saheed, 26; Feyikemi Odoje, 28; Ishola Faisat, 23; Abubakar Zainab, 22; Azeez Olarenwaju, 27; Soliu Ibrahim, 22; and Abdulbasit Abdulkadir, 24.

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The arrests and recoveries underscore the Command’s commitment to denying criminal elements the opportunity to operate, while strengthening ongoing efforts to rid the state of cultism and other forms of violent criminality.

Police spokesperson Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi stated that the arrests and seizures demonstrate the command's dedication to preventing criminal activities and eradicating cultism and violent crime in the state. Investigations are ongoing to ascertain the extent of each suspect's involvement and to apprehend any potential accomplices. Those found guilty will face legal prosecution.

Kwara State Commissioner of Police, Adekimi Ojo, credited the operation's success to an intelligence-led policing strategy. He reiterated the command's commitment to proactive policing and collaboration with the public to maintain security and combat criminal elements.

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Those found culpable will be prosecuted in accordance with the law.