By Evelyn Usman
The Lagos State Police Command has arrested 23 suspected cultists, recovering five firearms in a series of coordinated operations across the state.

The raids were carried out in Ikorodu, Lagos Island, Okoko, Ilasan, Ogba and Iju, as part of efforts to curb cultism and violent crimes in Lagos.

Sources, however, hinted that the intensified operations may not be unconnected to intelligence on planned cult-related attacks and revenge missions often associated with “avenge dates” in the months of May, June and July.

Confirming the arrest of the suspects, who are between the ages of 18 and 43, the Police Public Relations Officer, Lagos State Command, SP Abimbola Adebisi, said the operations yielded significant breakthroughs.

She said: “The Lagos State Police Command has recorded significant breakthroughs through coordinated and simultaneous operations targeting cultism and illegal arms proliferation across Ikorodu, Lagos Island, Okoko, Ilasan, Ogba and Iju areas of the state.”

Giving a breakdown, Adebisi said four suspects were arrested in Ikorodu following credible intelligence linking them to cult activities, with preliminary findings pointing to the Buccaneers Confraternity, also known as Sea Lords.

In Lagos Island, she disclosed that nine suspected cultists were apprehended during a raid on a criminal hideout.

She added: “In Ilasan, five suspects were arrested in connection with the cult-related killing of one Emmanuel Obioson, while in Okoko, one suspect linked to the Eiye Confraternity was intercepted in possession of a firearm.”

The police spokesperson further stated that in Ogba and Iju areas, four suspects were arrested for alleged involvement in illegal cult gatherings, assault and other violent crimes.

“Weapons used in the attacks were recovered, while victims are currently receiving medical attention.

“Exhibits recovered from the suspects include five locally-made pistols, one toy pistol, 15 live cartridges, three expended cartridges, a police camouflage face cap, an army camouflage face cap and a jackknife with pouch.”

Reiterating the Command’s resolve to rid the state of criminal elements, Adebisi said: “The Commissioner of Police remains committed to eradicating cultism and violent crimes across the state.”

She urged residents to remain vigilant and support the police with timely and credible information through the Command’s emergency lines: 07061019374, 08065154338, 08063299264, 08039344870, and 09168630929.