NIGERIA: Lagos Police Arrest 135 Suspected Cultists, Recover 26 Firearms in Anti-Cult Crackdown

By Ameenat Hamzat, Lagos, Nigeria

The Lagos State Police Command has arrested 135 suspected cultists and recovered 26 firearms during coordinated raids across criminal hideouts and black spots in the state as part of efforts to prevent cult-related violence associated with the annual “7/7” celebration.

According to a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abimbola Adebisi, on Wednesday, the operation was carried out by Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers (DPOs), Tactical Commanders and the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) on the directive of the Commissioner of Police, CP Tijani Fatai, following credible intelligence.

The Command said intelligence reports indicated that rival cult groups were planning attacks and other criminal activities linked to the 7/7 cult celebration, prompting simultaneous raids across identified criminal hideouts and black spots within the state.

During the operation, operatives recovered 26 firearms, 16 dangerous weapons, including cutlasses, battle axes, daggers and knives, cult insignia, assorted charms, 11 bottles of different alcoholic brands, substances suspected to be Indian hemp and other illicit drugs, as well as six mobile phones.

The Police said investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend other members of the criminal gangs, while the arrested suspects will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.

Commissioner of Police, CP Tijani Fatai, commended the operatives for their professionalism and dedication to duty.

He said, “The Command remains unwavering in its commitment to the continued implementation of intelligence-led operations to deny criminals any safe haven and ensure the safety and security of all residents of Lagos State.”

The Commissioner also urged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to assist the Police in identifying criminal hideouts, apprehending offenders and enhancing public safety across the state.