On Saturday, July 26, 2025, the Ogun State Police Command announced a significant breakthrough in its ongoing fight against cultism. A meticulously planned midnight raid on the Hilton Hotel in Osiele, Abeokuta, resulted in the arrest of twenty-two individuals suspected of being members of the Aiye confraternity. The operation, a collaborative effort involving the Anti-Cultism Unit, Odeda Division, Aregbe Division, and the SWAT team, was executed based on credible intelligence indicating a gathering of cult members at the hotel. This swift action underscored the police command’s commitment to dismantling criminal networks and ensuring public safety within the state.
The raid, led by SP Adejoh Israel, commenced at approximately 8:20 PM. The element of surprise was crucial, ensuring the effective apprehension of the suspects before they could react or disperse. Among those arrested were two soldiers, a concerning development that highlights the potential infiltration of cultism into security structures. Nineteen other male suspects and three female suspects were also taken into custody. The presence of women among the arrested individuals suggests a broader involvement in cult activities than often perceived.
The police recovered several items from the scene, including a cut-to-size locally made gun, a UTC axe, and numerous blue beret caps, an apparent symbol of the Aiye confraternity. These confiscated items serve as evidence linking the suspects to the alleged cult activities and will play a crucial role in the subsequent investigation. The presence of a firearm among the confiscated items underscores the potential for violence and the threat these groups pose to the community.
Following the raid, all twenty-two suspects were immediately transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department’s Anti-Cultism Unit in Eleweran for further investigation and processing. This specialized unit is equipped to handle cult-related cases and will conduct a thorough investigation to ascertain the extent of each suspect’s involvement and their roles within the alleged confraternity. The police command stressed that no casualties were recorded during the operation, a testament to the professionalism and tactical precision of the officers involved.
CSP Omolola Odutola, the spokesperson for the Ogun State Police Command, released a statement detailing the successful operation to the media. She emphasized the command’s unwavering resolve to combat cultism and all forms of violent crime within the state. The successful raid underscores the importance of proactive policing and the utilization of credible intelligence in disrupting criminal activities. The police command’s commitment to tackling these issues head-on sends a strong message of deterrence to potential offenders.
The Ogun State Police Command also appealed to the public for continued cooperation in its fight against crime. Residents were urged to report any suspicious activities or provide information that could assist in ongoing investigations. This community partnership is essential for maintaining law and order and ensuring a safe environment for all citizens. The proactive approach coupled with community collaboration creates a stronger front against criminal elements, ensuring that such threats can be effectively addressed.
