Operatives of the Ondo State Police Command have arrested 24 suspected cultists during an alleged initiation ceremony in Ile-Oluji/Oke-Igbo Local Government Area of the state.
The command said the suspects, believed to be members of the notorious Aiye confraternity, were apprehended during a coordinated operation by the Special Anti-Cultism Squad.
The state Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, disclosed this in a statement issued on Tuesday.
According to him, the operation followed credible intelligence indicating that suspected cult members had gathered in a secluded bush area in Ile-Oluji town for secret initiation activities.
Jimoh explained that the raid was carried out on Saturday, May 10, 2026, leading to the arrest of the 24 male suspects without resistance.
He stated that preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects allegedly travelled from different parts of Ondo State and neighbouring communities to participate in the cult initiation and meeting.
The police spokesperson noted that the timely intervention of the operatives helped to avert a possible breakdown of law and order in the area.
Items recovered from the suspects included two caps bearing the insignia of the Aiye confraternity, substances suspected to be Indian hemp, and several mobile phones said to be relevant to ongoing investigations.
Jimoh added that the Ondo State Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, commended the operatives for their professionalism and swift response during the operation.
He reaffirmed the command’s resolve to intensify the fight against cultism, violent crimes and other criminal activities capable of endangering residents across the state.
The police spokesman also warned individuals involved in cult-related activities to desist or face prosecution in accordance with the law.
He assured residents that investigations were ongoing to identify and apprehend other suspected members linked to the alleged criminal network.
Jimoh urged members of the public to remain vigilant and continue to support security agencies with credible and timely information to sustain peace and security in the state.