THREE SUSPECTED CULTISTS, ARMED ROBBERS, ARRESTED IN IBADAN

The Oyo State Police Command has arrested three suspected cultists and armed robbers in Ibadan, recovering a locally fabricated pistol and other dangerous weapons during an intelligence-led operation.

The suspects were apprehended by operatives attached to the Oluyole Divisional Police Headquarters while conducting a routine stop-and-search operation around the Rhema Bridge axis of Oluyole, Ibadan.

According to a statement issued on Tuesday by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, the officers intercepted a Bajaj motorcycle conveying the three suspects after observing suspicious movements.

He said a thorough search of the suspects led to the recovery of a cut-to-size locally fabricated pistol and an axe concealed inside a black school bag in their possession.

“The suspects were immediately taken into custody, while the exhibits were recovered for further investigation,” the statement said.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects are members of the Aiye and Eiye cult groups. The police further disclosed that the suspects confessed to participating in a series of violent crimes, including armed robbery.

The Command said investigations have been intensified to determine the full extent of the suspects’ involvement in armed robbery, cult-related activities and other criminal offences.

It added that efforts are ongoing to identify and arrest other members of the criminal network.

Commending the vigilance and professionalism of the operatives, the Commissioner of Police in Oyo State, Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, said their proactive action prevented what could have resulted in violent criminal activities.

The police commissioner reiterated the Command’s commitment to sustaining intelligence-led policing, enhanced visibility patrols and strategic stop-and-search operations to deny criminals the opportunity to operate in the state.

He also appreciated residents for their continued support and urged members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious persons or activities through the appropriate police channels.

According to him, collaboration between the police and the public remains essential to ensuring a safer and more secure Oyo State.