The Oyo State Police Command says it has stopped a suspected cult meeting in Oyo town and arrested three men believed to be members of a criminal confraternity.
According to the Command, officers of the Atiba Division acted on “credible, actionable intelligence” and moved swiftly to Bode Thomas Secondary School, where dozens of individuals dressed in black were reportedly assembling.
Police said about 30 people scattered into nearby bushes on sighting security operatives.
The suspects arrested at the scene include 20-year-old Jelili Taiwo Kazeem, 25-year-old Toheeb Adediran, and 23-year-old Ayomide Taiwo.
Investigators disclosed that Adediran, a commercial motorcycle rider, had allegedly transported some of the group members to the location. His motorcycle was seized as part of the investigation.
Police said the suspects confessed to belonging to the Aiye Confraternity and claimed they had gathered to celebrate a member’s birthday.
According to the Command, the men “voluntarily explained their roles within the group and provided useful intelligence.”
A search of the area reportedly led to the recovery of a motorcycle, an axe, and a black cap believed to be linked to the suspected cult activity.
Commissioner of Police, Oyo State Command, praised the prompt operation, saying the success reflected the Command’s commitment to tackling cultism.
“We will not allow any group or gang turn Oyo State into a haven for cult activities,” the CP said, while also thanking the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, for what he described as “unwavering support and a firm stance against violent crime.”
The case has been transferred to the State Anti-Cultism Squad for deeper investigation, and police say the suspects are already giving information to help track down other fleeing members.
“They will be charged to court once investigations are completed,” the Command added.
The police urged parents and guardians to counsel their children against joining criminal groups, warning that the consequences remain severe both legally and socially.
