The Osun State Police Command has arrested 14 suspects in coordinated intelligence-led raids across the state, recovering firearms and other dangerous weapons. The operation was conducted in compliance with the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, to ensure a safe environment ahead of the 2027 general elections. The raids were carried out on October 25, 2026, at identified black spots and suspected criminal hideouts.
During the operation, 37 individuals were arrested and profiled, with 23 released unconditionally and 14 retained for further investigation. The suspects were allegedly involved in extortion, thuggery, illicit drug-related activities, and conduct capable of causing fear among residents. The police have charged the suspects to court. The arrested individuals are Oluranti Fatai, Suraju Adebayo, Okunola Sodiq, Ibrahim Sodiq, Ganiyu Sikiru, Moshood Adeleke, Kayoye Oguntayo, Alaudeen Samad, Ridwan Adegbola, Busari Hammad, Abiodun Fiyiola, Adeleke Olawale, Salaudeen Mujib, and Olaposi Afeez.
In a separate operation, the Command arrested two suspected cultists and recovered a locally made firearm following a violent cult clash at Laoye Street, Ede North Local Government Area. On October 19, 2026, detectives responded to a distress call that suspected cultists were attacking one another and shooting sporadically. The police operatives were ambushed by armed suspected cultists, but successfully arrested one suspect, Salaudeen Mujib, who was found in possession of a locally made cut-to-size firearm.
The suspect, Salaudeen Mujib, sustained a minor gunshot injury to his right thigh during the incident and confessed to being a member of the Aye cult group. Following a grid search of the area, operatives arrested a second suspect, Olaposi Afeez, and recovered a battle axe and local charms. He allegedly confessed to being a member of the Eiye confraternity. The police have cordoned off the area and are searching for other fleeing members of the suspected cult groups.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Zungura, has reiterated the Command's commitment to combating cultism, unlawful possession of firearms, and other violent crimes. He warned individuals involved in such acts to desist and urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements to the nearest police station. The police have intensified efforts to apprehend other fleeing suspects and recover additional weapons.
The Osun State Police Command's operation is part of a broader effort to ensure a safe and secure environment ahead of the 2027 general elections. The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, had directed all state police commands to take proactive measures to prevent and disrupt potential threats to public safety. The Osun State Police Command has been working to identify and dismantle criminal networks and hideouts across the state.
The police have assured residents of the state of their commitment to protecting them and their property. The Command has urged residents to cooperate with the police and provide information on suspicious activities. The arrested suspects are currently facing prosecution, and the police are working to bring other perpetrators to justice.
Key points
- The Osun State Police Command arrested 14 suspects and recovered firearms in statewide raids ahead of the 2027 general elections.
- The operation was conducted to ensure a safe environment and prevent potential threats to public safety.
- The police have charged the suspects to court and are working to apprehend other fleeing suspects.
