Ondo Police have arrested six people suspected of involvement in unlawful confraternity activities in Akungba and Iwaro Akoko communities. The arrests, carried out by the Special Anti-Cultism Squad (SACS) in the early hours of Tuesday, June 16, 2026, followed credible intelligence about cult-related operations in the area. Those taken into custody are Damilare Kayode (30), Adejoro Godwin (30), Adedapo Ogunro (36), Chisom Okechukwu (21), Ademulegun Imisi (26), and Odugunle Bukola (21). A police statement issued by DSP Abayomi Jimoh, spokesperson for the Ondo Police Command, confirmed the operation and the ongoing investigation.
During a search, officers recovered five battle axes, one jackknife, various criminal charms, and confraternity paraphernalia including yellow singlets, boots, and face caps. These items have been taken into police custody as exhibits. Preliminary findings suggest the suspects were linked to unlawful confraternities operating within the Akoko axis, a situation DSP Jimoh said has contributed to persistent security challenges in some communities. The suspects will be charged to court after investigations conclude.
Police Commissioner Felix Ohagwu praised the officers involved and reaffirmed commitment to the Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Rilwan Disu's directive to suppress cultism and violent crime nationwide. He said intelligence gathered during the operation is being analysed to identify additional members and uncover the full scope of the group's activities. Ohagwu assured residents that the command will intensify intelligence-led raids, visibility policing, and strategic operations to deny criminals safe spaces in Ondo State. He urged the public to provide timely and credible information to support ongoing law enforcement efforts.
The police say they are dismantling cult networks in Akoko, yet these suspects operated openly enough to be arrested with battle axes and confraternity gear in public spaces. If intelligence led to this raid, it raises questions about why such visible criminal activity was not intercepted earlier. Communities have lived with this threat for an extended period, according to police own statement. The delay suggests either a lapse in surveillance or a reactive rather than preventive security approach.
⚖️ NaijaBuzz Take is AI-assisted editorial opinion. All persons mentioned are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Full disclaimer →
