The Zone 2 Police Command in Lagos has arrested 20 individuals allegedly involved in cult activities, armed robbery, and the killing of a police officer in the Ilesi community near Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State.
The command’s spokesperson, CSP Umma Ayuba, confirmed the arrest in a statement released on Wednesday in Lagos.
She explained that the incident took place on Nov. 29 around 9:30 p.m., when suspected members of the Neo Black Movement (NBM), also known as the Aye Fraternity, invaded the Ilesi area to retaliate for a previous attack on one of their members.
“As the suspects moved through the neighbourhood in search of rival cultists, tension escalated, drawing the attention of a police officer who lived in the community, along with some residents.
“Upon sighting them, the armed cultists opened fire, killing the officer on the spot and leaving two other residents severely injured. In a gruesome twist, the attackers amputated the officer’s left hand and fled with it,” she said.
Ayuba noted that operatives of the Zonal Dragon Squad carried out a coordinated, intelligence-driven operation.
“In the early hours of Dec. 1, at about 12:00 a.m., officers raided a hideout in the Ogbere area of Ogun, where the suspects were believed to be regrouping.
“The operation resulted in the apprehension of 20 suspects linked to the violent attack, as well as other offences, including unlawful possession of firearms,” she said.
She added that several items were recovered during the operation.
“Items recovered include one Nissan Micra (Reg. No. KSH 793 XA), a double-barrel short gun, a single-barrel short gun, two locally made single-barrel pistols, 29 live cartridges, 19 mobile phones, N72,000 cash, a wristwatch, three necklaces and three ATM cards,” she said.
According to her, efforts are underway to track down another suspect still on the run, believed to be holding the late officer’s amputated hand.
She said that security has been reinforced throughout the affected areas as investigations proceed.
Ayuba added that the AIG in charge of the zone, Mr Adegoke Fayoade, encouraged residents to stay alert and quickly report any suspicious behaviour.
“AIG Fayoade, while urging residents to remain vigilant, reiterated his commitment to ensuring that all perpetrators of these heinous crimes are made to face the full wrath of the law,” Ayuba said.
