A major police operation in Lagos has led to the arrest of three suspected cult members and the recovery of several firearms and dangerous weapons.
The suspects were arrested during an intelligence-led operation in Imota after police received credible information from residents about the activities of suspected cult members in the area. The successful raid has again brought attention to the growing campaign against cultism and illegal weapons in Lagos.
During the operation, police arrested Jelili Adeyemo, 37, who was identified as the alleged armourer of the group. In addition, Bisoye Adewale, 42, and John Okeafo, 60, were also taken into custody.
Police recovered one Beretta pistol, one locally made pistol, seven Dane guns, ten live cartridges and seven spent cartridges. Moreover, one stun gun, two handcuffs, four cutlasses and other items believed to be linked to criminal activities were also recovered from the suspects.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects are believed to be members of the Aiye Confraternity. However, investigations are still ongoing to establish the full extent of their activities and identify other members of the group.
The police also disclosed that the recovered Beretta pistol allegedly belongs to a notorious cult member known as “Mayibone,” who remains on the run.
Authorities said efforts have already been intensified to locate and arrest the fleeing suspect. Meanwhile, additional investigations are being carried out to recover more illegal weapons believed to be in the possession of other gang members.
The three suspects have since been arraigned before the court and remanded. Therefore, they will remain in custody while the legal process continues.
Reacting to the successful operation, the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Tijani Fatai, reaffirmed the command’s determination to eliminate cultism and violent crimes across Lagos.
He urged residents not to remain silent whenever they notice suspicious movements within their communities. According to him, timely information from the public remains one of the strongest tools in preventing crime.
The Commissioner encouraged Lagos residents to continue supporting security agencies with useful information. Furthermore, he assured the public that every credible report would be treated with urgency and professionalism.
The command also reminded residents to report suspicious persons, vehicles or unusual activities through the nearest police station or the official emergency lines made available by the Lagos State Police Command.
The latest breakthrough has once again demonstrated the importance of intelligence-led policing and public cooperation. Consequently, authorities believe that stronger collaboration between residents and law enforcement will continue to reduce criminal activities across Lagos.
