The Osun State Police Command says it has arrested 24 suspected cultists and political thugs as part of intensified efforts to curb cult-related violence and maintain security ahead of upcoming elections in the state.
The Punch reported that the Commissioner of Police in Osun State, Ibrahim Gotan, disclosed this during a press briefing on Monday, noting that the command had stepped up operations targeting cultism, political thuggery and other violent crimes following a series of killings reported in different parts of the state.
According to a statement issued on Monday and made available to journalists, Gotan acknowledged that some of the incidents had attracted political interpretations but stressed that the police remained focused on restoring order and ensuring those responsible were brought to justice.
“The command is fully aware of the recent cult-related killings and acts of thuggery threatening the peace of the state, some of which have been given political undertones.
“Through intensified operations, the Command has arrested several suspects linked to these crimes and remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of all residents,” he said.
The police commissioner identified the suspects as Kareem Saheed, popularly known as “Tanfiani”; Oyeladun Muideen, alias “Akilapa”; Ridwan Adekola; Mukaila Azeez, alias “Mikki”; Sunday Friday, alias “Akube”; Olamilekan Fatai; Tiamiyu Ismail; Famuyiwa Adekunle Toib; Ajiboye Toheed; Morufu Sodiq; Folorunsho Moshood; Hassan Sodiq; Badiru Saheed; Adegoke Olalekan; Faruk Olawale; Iyanuoluwa Sarumi; Afolabi Ahmed; Adeshina Lukman; Mutiu Opeyemi; Olushola Daniel; Abiola Olabode; Azeez Abiodun; Babatunde Kehinde; and Dada Mayowa.
Gotan reaffirmed the command’s resolve to eliminate criminal activities and guarantee a peaceful environment throughout the election period.
“I want to reiterate the command’s commitment to rid the state of criminal elements and ensure a peaceful atmosphere before, during, and after the forthcoming elections.
“I am using this avenue to warn all criminally minded individuals, including cultists, political thugs, and other troublemakers, to desist from activities capable of disrupting public peace and order or face the full wrath of the law,” he said.
The commissioner further assured residents that the police would continue to operate professionally and impartially while carrying out their constitutional duties.
“I assure law-abiding residents of Osun State that the Command under my watch will continue to prioritise their safety while seeking more support and cooperation.
“We will remain professional, neutral and non-partisan in the discharge of our constitutional responsibilities and continue to uphold the rule of law without fear or favour,” he added.
