Police arrest suspected Eiye cultist, recover pistol in Lagos

Operatives of the Lagos State Police Command have arrested a 27-year-old suspected cult member, Yusuf Lamina Adigun, during a stop-and-search operation in the Ijaiye/Ojokoro area of Lagos, recovering a locally fabricated pistol loaded with a live cartridge from him.

The arrest, according to the police, formed part of ongoing operations aimed at curbing cult-related activities and other violent crimes across the state.

This was disclosed in a statement issued on Saturday by the Police Public Relations Officer of the Command, Abimbola Adebisi.

According to the statement, police operatives intercepted a motorcycle carrying three passengers during a routine patrol and search operation in the area.

A search conducted on the occupants reportedly led to the discovery of a locally made firearm loaded with one live cartridge in the possession of Adigun.

“During the operation, officers searched the passengers on the motorcycle and recovered a locally fabricated pistol with one live cartridge from one of the suspects identified as Yusuf Lamina Adigun, aged 27,” the statement said.

The Command further disclosed that the suspect allegedly admitted during preliminary interrogation that he is a member of the Eiye Confraternity.

Police also claimed that Adigun confessed that he and other members of the cult group, who escaped arrest, were allegedly heading out to carry out an attack before they were intercepted by officers.

“He confessed to being affiliated with the Eiye cult group and disclosed that he and other members currently at large were on their way to attack some individuals before the police operation disrupted their movement,” the statement added.

The police said the suspect remains in custody while investigations continue.

The Command also stated that efforts were ongoing to apprehend other fleeing members of the alleged cult group and recover additional weapons that may be in their possession.

Reacting to the development, the Commissioner of Police, Tijani Fatai, reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to strengthening intelligence-led policing and proactive operations targeted at dismantling cult groups and criminal networks operating across Lagos State.

He also appealed to residents to remain security conscious and continue to support the police with useful and timely information capable of preventing crime and improving public safety.

“The Command remains resolute in its determination to sustain aggressive operations against cultism and other violent crimes. Members of the public are encouraged to continue cooperating with the police by providing credible information that will aid crime prevention and ensure the security of lives and property,” the statement added.