Police arrest six suspected cultists, recover battle axes in Ondo

Ondo State Police Command has arrested six suspected cultists during a raid carried out in Akungba and Iwaro Akoko communities, recovering dangerous weapons and alleged confraternity items from the suspects.

The command disclosed that the suspects were apprehended by operatives of the Special Anti-Cultism Squad, SACS, in the early hours of June 16, 2026, following intelligence reports on the activities of suspected cult groups within the affected communities.

Police spokesperson, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, identified the suspects as Damilare Kayode, Adejoro Godwin, Adedapo Ogunro, Chisom Okechukwu, Ademulegun Imisi and Odugunle Bukola.

According to the police, preliminary investigations linked the suspects to unlawful confraternity activities allegedly operating within the Akoko axis of the state.

Jimoh stated that a search conducted during the operation led to the recovery of several items suspected to be connected to cult-related activities.

The recovered exhibits included five battle axes, a jackknife, alleged criminal charms and several confraternity materials such as boots, yellow singlets and face caps.

The police said the items had been taken into custody as exhibits and would form part of ongoing investigations into the case.

The command added that investigations were still in progress and that the suspects would be arraigned in court upon completion of the investigation.

Describing the operation as a major breakthrough, the police said the arrests reflected the command’s resolve to dismantle criminal networks and prevent activities capable of threatening public safety.

According to the statement, intelligence gathered from the raid is currently being analysed to identify other suspected members of the group and determine the full extent of their operations within and outside the affected communities.

The Commissioner of Police in Ondo State, Felix Ohagwu, commended the operatives involved in the operation for their professionalism and commitment.

He reiterated the command’s commitment to the directive of the Olatunji Rilwan Disu on combating cultism, violent crimes and other criminal activities nationwide.

Ohagwu also assured residents that the command would continue to strengthen intelligence-driven policing, strategic raids and visibility patrols aimed at denying criminal elements safe haven in the state.

He urged residents to continue supporting the police with timely and credible information to aid efforts at maintaining law and order across Ondo State.