Lagos Police Arrest 135 Suspected Cultists, Recover 26 Firearms in Statewide Raids
The Lagos State Police Command has arrested 135 suspected cultists and recovered 26 firearms, dangerous weapons, illicit drugs and other incriminating items during coordinated raids aimed at preventing cult-related violence associated with the annual July 7 (7/7) cult celebration.
The operation, carried out on the directive of the Commissioner of Police, CP Tijani Fatai, involved Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers (DPOs), Tactical Commanders and the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), who simultaneously raided identified criminal hideouts and black spots across the state.
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According to the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abimbola Adebisi, the operation was intelligence-driven and followed credible reports that rival cult groups were planning coordinated attacks and other criminal activities linked to the 7/7 celebration and initiation rites.
The police said the operation led to the arrest of 135 suspected cult members and the recovery of 26 firearms, 16 dangerous weapons—including cutlasses, battle axes, daggers and knives—as well as cult insignia and assorted charms.
Also recovered were 11 bottles of different alcoholic brands, substances suspected to be Indian hemp and other illicit drugs, alongside six mobile phones believed to be connected to the suspects.
The command said investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend other members of the criminal gangs involved in the planned violence.
It added that all suspects would be prosecuted upon the conclusion of investigations.
The Lagos State Police Command reiterated its commitment to sustaining intelligence-led operations to curb cultism and other violent crimes, while assuring residents of continued efforts to maintain law and order across the state.
By PRNigeria
