The Ondo State Police Command has arrested six suspected cultists during an intelligence-led operation in Akoko South-West Local Government Area, recovering weapons and items allegedly linked to confraternities’ activities.
The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, said the operation was carried out by operatives of the Special Anti-Cultism Squad in Akungba and Iwaro Akoko communities following credible intelligence on suspected cult movements.
“The command, in its ongoing campaign against cultism and other violent crimes, arrested six suspected cultists during a well-coordinated intelligence-led operation carried out by operatives of the Special Anti-Cultism Squad in Akungba and Iwaro Akoko communities in Akoko South-West LGA,” Jimoh said.
He explained that the raid, conducted in the early hours of Tuesday, June 16, 2026, was based on information indicating the presence and activities of suspected cult members in the affected communities.
“The operation was conducted in the early hours of Tuesday, June 16, 2026, following credible intelligence indicating the activities of suspected cult members within the affected areas. Acting on the information, operatives mobilised to identified locations where the suspects were apprehended,” he added.
The suspects arrested 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 police, preliminary investigations suggest that the suspects are linked to unlawful confraternities operating within the Akoko axis, an area where cult-related violence has raised growing security concerns.
Items recovered during the operation include five battle axes, a jackknife, assorted charms, and paraphernalia suspected to be associated with cult groups, such as boots, yellow singlets, and face caps.
The police said the exhibits have been secured and will be used as evidence as investigations continue.
Authorities also disclosed that efforts are underway to track down other members of the group and uncover the full extent of their activities within and beyond the communities.
The command further stated that the suspects will be charged to court upon conclusion of investigations.
