Osun Police Arrest 24 Suspected Thugs and Cultists

The Osun State Police have arrested 24 suspected cult members and political thugs. This move is part of their efforts to deal with rising cult-related violence and ensure safety as elections approach in the state.

The state Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gotan, shared this news during a press conference on Monday. He mentioned that the police have stepped up operations against cultism, political thuggery, and other violent crimes after recent killings in the area.

In a statement sent to PUNCH Online on Monday, Gotan said some of these incidents have political links. He assured residents that the police are dedicated to restoring peace and bringing those responsible to justice.

"The command is fully aware of the recent cult-related killings and acts of thuggery threatening the peace of the state, some of which have been given political undertones.

"Through intensified operations, the Command has arrested several suspects linked to these crimes and remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of all residents," he said.

The police chief named the suspects as Kareem Saheed, known as "Tanfiani"; Oyeladun Muideen, alias "Akilapa"; Ridwan Adekola; Mukaila Azeez, also known as "Mikki"; Sunday Friday, alias "Akube"; Olamilekan Fatai; Tiamiyu Ismail; Famuyiwa Adekunle Toib; Ajiboye Toheed; Morufu Sodiq; Folorunsho Moshood; Hassan Sodiq; Badiru Saheed; Adegoke Olalekan; Faruk Olawale; Iyanuoluwa Sarumi; Afolabi Ahmed; Adeshina Lukman; Mutiu Opeyemi; Olushola Daniel; Abiola Olabode; Azeez Abiodun; Babatunde Kehinde and Dada Mayowa.

Gotan emphasized the police's goal to clear the state of criminals before, during, and after elections. He said, "I want to reiterate the command’s commitment to rid the state of criminal elements and ensure a peaceful atmosphere before, during, and after the forthcoming elections.

"I am using this avenue to warn all criminally minded individuals, including cultists, political thugs, and other troublemakers, to desist from activities capable of disrupting public peace and order or face the full wrath of the law," he said.

The commissioner also assured law-abiding citizens that the police will act professionally and fairly in their duties. "I assure law-abiding residents of Osun State that the Command under my watch will continue to prioritise their safety while seeking more support and cooperation.

"We will remain professional, neutral and non-partisan in the discharge of our constitutional responsibilities and continue to uphold the rule of law without fear or favour," he added.