Lagos Police Arrest 135 Suspected Cultists, Recover 26 Firearms in Crackdown on Planned 7/7 Cult Activities
The Lagos State Police Command has arrested 135 suspected cultists and recovered 26 firearms, dangerous weapons and illicit substances during a coordinated intelligence-led operation aimed at preventing violence associated with the annual 7/7 cult celebrations across the state.
The Lagos State Police Command has intensified its crackdown on cult-related activities with the arrest of 135 suspected cultists during a coordinated security operation conducted across identified criminal hideouts and black spots in the state.
The operation, directed by the Commissioner of Police, Fatai Tijani, was launched following credible intelligence that rival cult groups were planning attacks and other criminal activities during the annual 7/7 cult celebration and initiation period.
The coordinated raid involved Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers (DPOs), Tactical Commanders and operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), who simultaneously stormed identified locations across Lagos to disrupt the planned activities before they could escalate into violence.
During the operation, police recovered 26 firearms, 16 dangerous weapons—including cutlasses, battle axes, daggers and knives—cult insignia, assorted charms, 11 bottles of various alcoholic beverages, substances suspected to be Indian hemp and other illicit drugs, as well as six mobile phones believed to be linked to the suspects.
According to a statement signed by the Command's Police Public Relations Officer, Abimbola Adebisi, the operation formed part of the Command's proactive strategy to prevent cult-related violence and sustain peace and security across Lagos.
The spokesperson said the operation was carried out to thwart plans by rival cult groups to launch attacks and engage in other criminal activities during the 7/7 celebrations.
She disclosed that investigations are ongoing to identify and arrest other members of the criminal gangs, adding that all suspects will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
The Command said the latest operation reflects its continued commitment to intelligence-led policing, preventive security measures and the disruption of criminal networks before they pose a threat to residents, businesses and public safety in Lagos.
No comments