Police Arrest 5 Suspected Cultists In Ondo

Operatives of the Ondo State Police Command have arrested five suspected cultists during a raid on a residential building, in a renewed crackdown on cult-related activities in the state.

The suspects were apprehended by the command’s Special Anti-Cultism Squad in Akungba-Akoko, a community in the Akoko South West local government area.

In a statement issued yesterday by the command’s spokesperson Abayomi Jimoh, said the suspects were holding a secret meeting and chanting cult-related slogans, raising concerns among residents.

The police said the intelligence received on March 27, 2026, prompted a swift and coordinated response by operatives, who moved to the location in Akungba Akoko, cordoned off the building, and made the arrests.

Those arrested were identified as Adesuye Dare, Ayeerun Joshua, Ojo Omole, Adu Dele, and Akeju Idowu.

The command further disclosed that the suspects are currently in custody and have made useful statements aiding ongoing investigations.

‎The statement reads in part, “Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspects are members of the notorious Eiye Confraternity, a secret cult group associated with violent crimes, unlawful gatherings, and threats to public peace and order.

‎”The suspects are currently in police custody and have made useful statements that are aiding the investigation. Meanwhile, efforts are ongoing to deepen the investigation with a view to uncovering the broader network of the group, identifying additional members, and preventing any planned criminal activities linked to the syndicate

‎The Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, commended the swift response of the operatives and the role of residents who provided timely information that led to the operation.

‎He reiterated the Command’s zero-tolerance stance against cultism and urged youths to avoid involvement in unlawful groups, assuring that the suspects would be charged in court upon the conclusion of investigations.

‎He urged residents of the state, especially youths, to steer clear of cult-related activities.

‎”Members of the public, particularly youths, are strongly advised to steer clear of cult-related activities and associations, as the consequences are severe and far-reaching. Parents and guardians are equally encouraged to monitor their wards and guide them against involvement in unlawful groups,” he said.