Police apprehend 24 suspected cultists during initiation process in Ondo

By Boye Oyeyemi

The Ondo State Police Command has arrested 24 suspected members of the Aiye Confraternity during an alleged initiation ceremony in Ile-Oluji, Ondo State.

The suspects were reportedly apprehended by operatives of the Special Anti-Cultism Squad following an intelligence-led operation carried out in a forested area of the community.

Police authorities said the suspects, all males, allegedly gathered from different parts of the state and neighbouring areas for a secret cult meeting and initiation exercise before security operatives stormed the venue.

Items recovered from the suspects included two crested caps bearing the insignia of the cult group, substances suspected to be Indian hemp and several mobile phones.

Reacting to the development, the Commissioner of Police in the state, Adebowale Lawal, commended the operatives for what he described as professionalism and swift action in preventing a possible breakdown of law and order.

“The operation was carried out professionally and without incident. This is part of our sustained crackdown on cultism and violent crimes across the state,” the police commissioner said.

Lawal reiterated the command’s zero tolerance for cult-related activities and warned criminal elements to steer clear of acts capable of threatening public peace and security in the state.

“The command remains committed to identifying, tracking and prosecuting individuals involved in criminal activities. Investigation is ongoing to uncover the full network behind the gathering and ensure all culpable persons are brought to justice,” he added.