The Ogun State Police Command has arrested three suspected members of the Eiye cult and rescued a victim during an initiation ceremony in Malaka Quarters, Owode Egba, within the Obafemi-Owode Local Government Area.
The arrested suspects are Olayiwola Akinsanya, Keji Sodipo, and Oluwaseyi Olabamiji. The police acted on a report they received, leading to the arrests.
A police source revealed that on the night of the incident, Tuesday, May 28, they rescued a victim named Joshua Obiladem, who was about to be initiated into the cult. During the operation, the police recovered a knife and charms from the suspects. These items are now part of the evidence, and the suspects are being held in police custody.
Omolola Odutola, the spokesperson for the Ogun State Police Command, confirmed the incident. She stated that an investigation is underway to apprehend the remaining members of the cult group.
Odutola explained, “On May 26, 2024, around 5:00 PM, we received information from the public about a planned initiation by Eiye cult members in Malaka Quarters of Owode Egba Township. A team of detectives, led by the Owode Egba Divisional Police Officer, responded promptly. They managed to rescue one victim, Joshua Obiladem and arrested three suspects: Olayiwola Akinsanya, 34; Keji Sodipo, 25; and Oluwaseyi Olabamiji, 20. They also recovered a knife and charms from the scene.”
“The suspects are currently being interrogated, and efforts are ongoing to arrest other suspects who are still at large,” Odutola added.
The police operation highlights the ongoing efforts to combat cult activities in Ogun State. Cultism remains a significant issue in many parts of Nigeria, often involving violent crimes and posing a threat to community safety. The police have been actively working to crack down on these groups, aiming to restore peace and security in affected areas.
This latest incident demonstrates the importance of community cooperation with law enforcement. The information provided by residents played a crucial role in enabling the police to act swiftly and effectively, preventing the initiation ceremony and potentially saving lives.
The Ogun State Police Command has assured the public that they are committed to thoroughly investigating this case and bringing all culprits to justice. They also encourage citizens to continue providing information that can help in the fight against crime.
As investigations continue, the police remain vigilant and determined to eradicate cult-related violence in the state. The ongoing efforts to apprehend the remaining members of the cult group reflect a broader commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all residents in Ogun State.
