The Osun State Police Command has increased security operations in Osogbo following a recent surge in suspected cult-related violence. Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Zungura, has deployed tactical teams to strategic locations across the state capital to prevent further attacks and restore calm. This move comes after two people were killed and one injured in separate incidents. The police are working to identify and apprehend those responsible for the violence.
The latest violence began on October 2 in the Owo-Eba area of Osogbo, where suspected members of rival cult groups clashed. Two men, Adebayo Taoreed and Oluwaseyi Daniel, were shot dead during the incident, while several others sustained gunshot injuries. Another attack occurred on October 4 in the Arowomole area, where a man, Rasak Wahab, was shot and taken to a hospital for treatment. The police have confirmed that Wahab was responding to treatment as of Sunday.
In response to the attacks, Commissioner Zungura has directed the command's tactical units to conduct intelligence-led raids and operations against suspected cult members, criminal hideouts, and locations linked to criminal activities. The teams have been deployed to the Oke-Baale area and will remain there until security is fully restored. The operations will be conducted professionally and within the ambit of the law.
The police have transferred the cases to the State Criminal Investigation Department for discreet investigation. Commissioner Zungura has also ordered Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, and tactical commanders to intensify patrols, strengthen intelligence gathering, and maintain a sustained security presence at identified flashpoints across Osogbo.
The Commissioner has warned cultists and their sponsors that Osun will not provide a safe haven for anyone involved in shootings and killings. He assured residents that the command is in control of the security situation and urged them to go about their lawful activities without fear. The police are working to prevent further attacks and restore calm to the area.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Ojelabi, Commissioner Zungura described the killings as "disturbing and unacceptable." The police are working to identify and apprehend those responsible for the violence and to prevent further incidents. The deployment of tactical teams is part of the command's efforts to enhance security in the area.
The Osun State Police Command is working to address the root causes of cultism and cult-related killings in the state. The command is urging residents to provide information that can help prevent further incidents and to work with the police to build a safer community. The police are committed to maintaining a sustained security presence in the area to prevent further attacks.
Key points
- The Osun State Police Command has deployed tactical teams to strategic locations across Osogbo to prevent further cult-related violence.
- Two people were killed and one injured in separate incidents of suspected cult-related violence in Osogbo.
- The police have transferred the cases to the State Criminal Investigation Department for discreet investigation.
