National Telescope national telescope newspaper
The Kwara State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of 46 alleged cultists who are believed to be inciting fear among the populace in different parts of Ilorin, the state capital.
The Command spokesperson, Ejire-Adeyemi Toun, disclosed this in a statement issued in reaction to tidings of disturbances occurring in several Ilorin hotspots during the weekend.
The statement read: “In the early hours of April 13, 2024, a disturbing incident of culpable homicide occurred at Ile-Film/Bolanta Road in Ilorin. Suspected cultists attacked and fatally shot Adelodun Farouq, a 36-year-old resident of Eleran Compound. The victim was buried according to Islamic rites without the knowledge of the police. Preliminary investigations indicate that Abubakar Gobir, a member of the Ayee confraternity, was involved in the crime.
“Later that evening, at about 2000 hrs, reports emerged of further cult activities in Ile-Alawo Compound, Centre Igboro. Unidentified cultists assaulted Abdullahi Alao, a 35-year-old motorcycle rider, with a machete cut to his head. Alao was subsequently taken to an unknown location by his younger brother. led by detectives, initiated a thorough search of the area.
“On April 14, 2024, another incident of criminal conspiracy involving suspected cultists was reported in various areas, including Baboko, Ile Onimago, Adabata, and Eruda. Miscreants engaged in a violent confrontation, a free-for-all combat, using weapons such as broken bottles and stones, leading to the blockage of Baboko Road.
“Swift action was taken by the DPO C Division, and six patrol teams, supported by men of the community, were mobilized to quell the disturbance.
“During the operation, 46 suspects were apprehended and handed over to the State Command Anti-Cultist Unit for further investigation. 14 out of the 46 suspects arrested have been linked to the recent cult activities in the Ilorin metropolis.”
Ejire-Adeyemi said that normalcy has since been restored to the affected areas, the road barricades have been cleared, and residents are able to resume their daily activities.
“The Commissioner of Police, CP Victor Olaiya, urges citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities promptly,” the statement added.
