Kwara Police Arrest Two Cult Members and Seize Gun

The Kwara State Police have arrested two suspected cult members and seized a handmade firearm in operations aimed at breaking down criminal groups in Ilorin.

The suspects are 33-year-old Abdullahi Jimoh Omotoho and Abdullahi Kareem Kawu, known as "B-Red." They were caught in separate operations after police gathered credible information and kept watch on them.

Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, the state Police Public Relations Officer, shared the news in a statement on Friday.

Ejire-Adeyemi said the arrests are a big win for the police in their fight against cultism and violent crimes in Kwara State.

The statement revealed that Omotoho, linked to the Klans-Avea cult group in Ilorin, was arrested during an operation based on solid intelligence.

"Acting on credible intelligence and sustained surveillance, operatives of the Command arrested one Abdullahi Jimoh Omotoho, 33 years old, a suspected member of a notorious cult group (Klans-Avea) operating within Ilorin metropolis.

"During the operation, a locally fabricated Beretta pistol was recovered from the suspect," the statement explained.

The police also said that information from this investigation led to the arrest of another suspect.

"Further intelligence generated in the course of the investigation led to the arrest of another suspect, Abdullahi Kareem Kawu, popularly known as ‘B-Red,’ of Eiye Confraternity who is currently assisting investigators in ongoing efforts to dismantle criminal networks associated with cult-related activities within the State," the statement said.

This operation is part of a larger effort to fight cultism, violent crimes, and other dangers to public safety in the state.

"The operation forms part of the command’s intensified campaign against cultism, violent crimes, and other threats to public safety.

"Preliminary investigations have provided useful leads regarding the activities of criminal gangs operating within the metropolis, while efforts are ongoing to identify and apprehend other members of the groups involved," the statement added.

Kwara State Commissioner of Police, Ojo Adekimi, praised the officers involved for their skill and dedication.

"I commend the professionalism, vigilance, and commitment of the operatives involved in the operation.

"The command remains determined to sustain intelligence-led policing and proactive crime-fighting strategies aimed at ensuring that criminal elements have no safe haven anywhere within Kwara State," he said.

Adekimi also warned those involved in cultism and violent crimes to stop or face serious consequences from the law.

"Residents should continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information capable of aiding ongoing efforts to maintain peace and security across the State," he added.

The police confirmed that both suspects are still in custody and are helping with ongoing investigations. They will be taken to court once the investigations are complete.