Police in Ogun State have successfully apprehended four suspected cultists following a report of assault, armed robbery, and theft in Ilaro. The arrests were made after a swift response to a complaint lodged at the police station on April 16, 2026.
Details of the Arrest and Recovery
The suspects, identified as Samson John (25), Olufowora Michael (28), Odeh Samuel Ejeh (25), and Olajide Jeremiah (28), were arrested after a complainant reported that Samson John, accompanied by six other individuals, stormed his residence earlier on the same day. The group assaulted and threatened him with an axe, subsequently robbing him of his mobile phone, an iPhone 14 Pro Max.
DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, the Police Public Relations Officer, confirmed the incident in a statement issued in Abeokuta. He detailed that upon receiving the report, operatives responded promptly and conducted an investigation, leading to the apprehension of the suspects.
Items Recovered During the Operation
During the operation, police recovered several items from the suspects, including:
- One locally made pistol
- An axe
- Suspected charms
- The stolen iPhone 14 Pro Max
These items were seized as evidence in the ongoing case, which has now been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further investigation and prosecution.
Police Response and Public Assurance
Commissioner of Police CP Bode Ojajuni commended the operatives for their prompt response and professionalism in handling the situation. He reiterated the Command's zero tolerance for cultism and other violent crimes, assuring residents that all criminal elements will be decisively dealt with.
CP Ojajuni urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities through the Ogun State Police Command emergency lines. The provided contact numbers include the Gateway Shield toll-free line at 0800 000 9111, as well as emergency numbers: 0906 283 7609, 0912 014 1706, 0915 102 7369, and 0708 497 2994.
Ongoing Efforts and Case Status
The suspects are currently in police custody, and efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing members of the gang. The case's transfer to SCID underscores the seriousness with which the police are treating this incident, aiming for thorough investigation and prosecution to ensure justice is served.
This arrest highlights the continued efforts by the Ogun State Police Command to combat crime and maintain public safety, particularly in addressing cult-related activities and violent offenses in the region.
