7/7: Police nab 135 suspected cultists, seize 26 guns in Lagos

Raids target suspected cult activity across Lagos

Operatives of the Lagos State Police Command have arrested 135 suspected cultists and recovered 26 firearms during coordinated raids on criminal hideouts and black spots across the state aimed at preventing cult-related violence associated with the July 7 (7/7) celebration and initiation.

The operation was carried out on the directive of the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Tijani Fatai. It involved Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers (DPOs), Tactical Commanders and the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU).

Police said the raids were intelligence-driven and focused on locations identified as potential flashpoints for violent clashes among rival cult groups.

Police cite intelligence on planned attacks

Confirming the development in a statement on Wednesday, the Police Public Relations Officer, Lagos State Command, SP Abimbola Adebisi, said the operation followed credible intelligence that rival cult groups were planning attacks and other criminal activities in parts of the state.

Adebisi said the operation resulted in the arrest of 135 suspected cultists and the recovery of 26 firearms.

Operatives of the Lagos State Police Command, comprising Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers (DPOs), Tactical Commanders, and the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), acting on the directive of the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Tijani Fatai, PSC, MNIPS, and on credible intelligence, conducted simultaneous raids across identified criminal hideouts and black spots within the State to prevent cult-related violence associated with the 7/7 celebration/initiation.

— Abimbola Adebisi, Police Public Relations Officer, Lagos State Command

He explained that the operation was prompted by intelligence indicating plans by rival cult groups to launch attacks and perpetrate other criminal activities.

Weapons and other items recovered

According to the police, operatives also recovered 16 other dangerous weapons, including cutlasses, battle axes, daggers and knives.

Other items recovered were cultist insignia, assorted charms, 11 bottles of different alcoholic brands, substances suspected to be Indian hemp and other illicit drugs, and six mobile phones.

The police did not provide further details on the specific locations where the items were recovered, but said the raids were carried out simultaneously across identified hotspots in the state.

Investigation continues as suspects face prosecution

The police spokesperson assured residents that investigations were ongoing to identify and apprehend other members of the criminal gangs involved.

He said all suspects would be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.

The Lagos State Police Command also reiterated its commitment to sustaining intelligence-led operations and proactive policing strategies aimed at protecting lives and property and ensuring that criminal elements have no safe haven in the state.