The Ondo State Police Command has recorded a major breakthrough in its ongoing crackdown on cultism and violent crime, arresting six suspected cultists and recovering weapons, charms and other incriminating items during a coordinated intelligence-led operation in the Akoko area of the state.
The operation, carried out by operatives of the Special Anti-Cultism Squad (SACS) in the early hours of June 16, 2026, targeted suspected cult activities in Akungba and Iwaro Akoko communities following actionable intelligence gathered by security agencies.
According to the police, the operation was launched after credible reports indicated the presence and activities of suspected members of unlawful confraternities operating within the affected communities. Acting on the intelligence, SACS operatives moved swiftly to identified locations and successfully apprehended six suspects.
The suspects were identified as Damilare Kayode, 30; Adejoro Godwin, 30; Adedapo Ogunro, 36; Chisom Okechukwu, 21; Ademulegun Imisi, 26; and Odugunle Bukola, 21.
Preliminary investigations by the command allegedly linked the suspects to cult-related activities within the Akoko axis, an area where security agencies have intensified efforts to curb the activities of violent criminal groups and unlawful secret societies.
During a thorough search conducted after the arrests, police operatives recovered five battle axes, a jackknife, several criminal charms and items believed to be associated with cult activities. The recovered exhibits also included confraternity paraphernalia such as boots, yellow singlets and face caps allegedly used by members of the group.
Police authorities said the recovered items have been secured as exhibits and will form part of the evidence in the ongoing investigation.
The Command described the operation as a significant success in its campaign to dismantle criminal networks before they can carry out acts capable of threatening public peace and safety.
Investigators are currently analysing intelligence obtained during the operation to identify additional suspects and uncover the full scope of the group’s activities within and beyond the affected communities.
Confirming the development, Ondo State Commissioner of Police, Felix Ohagwu, commended the professionalism and dedication displayed by the operatives involved in the operation.
The police chief also reaffirmed the command’s commitment to implementing the directives of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, on the suppression of cultism, violent crimes and other criminal activities across the country.
According to the statement, the Commissioner of Police assured residents that the command would continue to intensify intelligence-led policing, strategic raids and visibility patrols aimed at denying criminal elements safe havens anywhere in Ondo State.
He further called on members of the public to continue supporting law enforcement agencies by providing timely and credible information that could assist ongoing efforts to maintain security and public order.
Police authorities disclosed that investigations are still ongoing and that the suspects will be charged to court upon the conclusion of the inquiry.
