Lagos Police Arrest 23-Year-Old Suspected Cultist, Recover Firearm

In a recent operation, the Lagos State Police Command successfully apprehended a 23-year-old suspected cultist, Rafiu Odeyemi, and confiscated a firearm in his possession. The arrest was part of a proactive response to a violent encounter initiated by Odeyemi and his gang in a residential estate as part of a retaliatory strike against a rival cult group.

The Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, relayed the details of the arrest through his X account on Sunday. He narrated how the residents of the estate, where the incident occurred, displayed commendable courage and civic responsibility. They confronted the invading gang and managed to capture Rafiu Odeyemi, effectively disrupting the attack and ensuring that the suspect was handed over to the police, while his accomplices managed to evade capture.

The arrest of Odeyemi is a significant win for the Lagos State Police and the local community, showcasing a collaborative effort to combat the menace of cultism, which has been a recurring issue in many parts of Lagos. The quick response and bravery of the estate residents are particularly noteworthy, as their actions prevented what could have been a more severe and violent clash between rival groups.

Hundeyin praised the estate residents for their role in the operation. He emphasized the importance of community involvement in maintaining law and order and acknowledged their decision to refrain from taking the law into their own hands. Instead, they opted for a more lawful and responsible course of action by promptly handing over the suspect to the authorities.

The arrest of Odeyemi sends a clear message to cult groups and other criminal elements within Lagos that the police, in collaboration with the community, are vigilant and ready to take decisive action to ensure the safety and security of the residents. The suspect is currently awaiting arraignment, pending the conclusion of the ongoing investigation into the incident.

This incident reflects the ongoing efforts by the Lagos State Police Command to tackle the issue of cultism and other related crimes, reinforcing their commitment to creating a safer environment for all residents. The collaboration between the police and the community serves as a model for other areas, highlighting the importance of cooperation and vigilance in the fight against crime.