•••Intelligence-led operation nets suspected confraternity members as police intensify crackdown on cultism
The Ondo State Police Command has recorded a major breakthrough in its ongoing fight against cultism and violent crime with the arrest of six suspected cultists and the recovery of weapons, charms and other incriminating items during a coordinated operation in Akoko communities.
The suspects were apprehended during an intelligence-driven raid carried out by operatives of the Special Anti-Cultism Squad (SACS) in Akungba and Iwaro Akoko in the early hours of June 16, 2026.
Police authorities said the operation followed credible intelligence reports linking the suspects to activities of unlawful confraternities operating within the Akoko axis of the state.
The suspects were identified as Damilare Kayode, 30; Adejoro Godwin, 30; Adedapo Ogunro, 36; Chisom Okechukwu, 21; Ademulegun Imisi, 26; and Odugunle Bukola, 21.
According to the Command, preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects were allegedly involved in cult-related activities that have continued to pose security concerns in parts of the state.
A search conducted during the operation led to the recovery of five battle axes, one jackknife, various criminal charms, boots, yellow singlets and face caps believed to be associated with confraternity activities.
The recovered items have been taken into police custody as exhibits and are expected to form part of the evidence in the ongoing investigation.
The Police Command disclosed that investigations are continuing to unravel the full scope of the suspects’ activities and identify other members of the alleged cult network. The suspects will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
Describing the operation as a significant success, the Command said the arrests underscore its determination to dismantle criminal groups and prevent threats to public peace and security across the state.
The Commissioner of Police in Ondo State, CP Felix Ohagwu, commended the professionalism and commitment displayed by the operatives involved in the operation.
He reiterated the Command’s commitment to the directives of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, on the suppression of cultism and other violent crimes nationwide.
Ohagwu assured residents that the Command would continue to intensify intelligence-led policing, strategic raids and visibility patrols aimed at denying criminal elements safe haven in any part of the state.
He also appealed to members of the public to support law enforcement agencies with timely and credible information that could assist in sustaining peace and security across Ondo State.
