Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The Lagos State Police Command has arrested 23 suspected cult members and recovered five firearms and other weapons in a coordinated statewide operation targeting cultism, violent crime, and illegal arms circulation across multiple parts of the state.
The operation, carried out under the directive of Commissioner of Police Tijani Fatai, took place simultaneously in several locations including Ikorodu, Lagos Island, Ilasan, Okoko, Ogba, and Iju. Police authorities described the raids as part of an intensified effort to dismantle cult networks and curb rising incidents of violent crime.
According to a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Abimbola Adebisi, the operations were intelligence-led and executed based on credible information linking the suspects to cult-related activities and violent incidents in their respective areas.
In Ikorodu, four suspects were arrested following intelligence reports connecting them to cult operations allegedly associated with the Buccaneers confraternity, also known as Sea Lords. Preliminary investigations are ongoing to determine their specific roles within the group and their involvement in recent disturbances in the area.
On Lagos Island, nine suspected cultists were apprehended during a raid on what police described as a criminal hideout believed to serve as a meeting point for coordinated cult activities. Officers reportedly recovered incriminating materials from the location.
In Ilasan, five suspects were arrested in connection with the killing of a man identified as Emmanuel Obioson. Police say the arrests followed investigations into cult-related violence in the area, with the suspects believed to have direct links to the incident.
In Okoko, one suspect allegedly affiliated with the Eiye confraternity was intercepted while in possession of a firearm. Authorities say the arrest prevented what could have escalated into further violent activity in the area.
Additional arrests were made in Ogba and Iju, where four suspects were detained over alleged involvement in illegal cult gatherings, assault, and other violent offences. Police confirmed that victims of related attacks are currently receiving medical treatment.
The Command also disclosed that a total of five locally made pistols were recovered during the operations, alongside one toy pistol, fifteen live cartridges, and three expended cartridges. Other items seized include a police camouflage face cap, an army camouflage face cap, and a jackknife with a pouch, all of which are being examined as part of ongoing investigations.
Authorities released the names and details of the 23 suspects, ranging in age from 18 to 43, indicating a mix of young adults and older individuals allegedly involved in cult-related activities. Police say the identities are part of ongoing profiling efforts aimed at understanding the structure and reach of cult networks within Lagos State.
The Command emphasized that the operations are part of a broader strategy to dismantle organized cult groups, reduce violent crime, and improve public safety across Lagos. Officials noted that cult-related violence has remained a persistent security challenge in some urban and semi-urban communities.
The Commissioner of Police reiterated the Command’s commitment to sustaining the crackdown and warned that further operations would continue across identified hotspots. He also urged residents to cooperate with law enforcement by providing timely and credible intelligence to support ongoing efforts.
Police authorities encouraged members of the public to report suspicious activities through designated emergency contact lines, stressing that community participation remains critical to preventing crime and ensuring effective policing.
Security analysts note that cult-related violence in Lagos has often been linked to territorial disputes, retaliation attacks, and recruitment of young individuals into confraternities operating both within and outside academic environments. These groups are known for their clandestine structure and periodic clashes, which sometimes escalate into broader security concerns.
The latest arrests are part of a series of intensified law enforcement actions aimed at disrupting such networks. Police say they are also focusing on illegal arms circulation, which often fuels violent confrontations among rival groups.
Investigations into the latest arrests are ongoing, with authorities expected to charge the suspects in court upon completion of preliminary inquiries. Police also indicated that efforts are underway to track down other members of the suspected networks who may have evaded arrest.
The Lagos State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining public order and ensuring that criminal elements are removed from communities across the state. Officials said the operation demonstrates the effectiveness of intelligence-led policing in addressing complex security threats.
As investigations continue, authorities are expected to provide further updates on the case, including possible links between the suspects and other recent incidents of cult-related violence in Lagos.
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