Police Bust Suspected Cultist, Political Thug Network in Osun, Recover Firearms, Ammunition and Dangerous Weapons

Police Bust Suspected Cultist, Political Thug Network in Osun, Recover Firearms, Ammunition and Dangerous Weapons

June 10, 2026

The Osun State Police Command has recorded a major breakthrough in its ongoing crackdown on violent crimes with the arrest of three suspected notorious cultists and political thugs allegedly linked to criminal activities across the state.

The operation, which led to the recovery of firearms, ammunition, charms, and other dangerous weapons, was described by police authorities as a significant step towards strengthening security and dismantling criminal networks operating within Osun communities.

In a statement issued by the Command's Public Relations Officer, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, the suspects were identified as 27-year-old Adekola Olayinka Abdulazeez, 28-year-old Omolara Ezekiel, and 32-year-old Babatunde Azeez.

According to the police spokesperson, the arrests stemmed from a routine stop-and-search operation conducted by officers attached to the Ikirun Area Command on May 22, 2026.

Ojelabi disclosed that at approximately 10:00 a.m., police operatives intercepted Abdulazeez while he was riding an unregistered motorcycle under suspicious circumstances. A thorough search of the suspect reportedly uncovered two pistols, an axe, and several traditional charms believed to be used for criminal activities.

The discovery immediately raised concerns among the officers, prompting the transfer of the case to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), where it was assigned to the Anti-Robbery Section for a more comprehensive investigation.

During interrogation, investigators reportedly obtained valuable intelligence from Abdulazeez, who allegedly confessed to his involvement in criminal activities and identified Ezekiel and Azeez as members of the same gang.

Acting swiftly on the information, detectives launched a coordinated operation that resulted in the successful arrest of the two additional suspects at separate locations.

Further searches carried out during the operation led to the recovery of a cache of weapons and other incriminating items.

Police authorities listed the recovered exhibits as three English Beretta pistols, one live round of ammunition, one cut-to-size gun, two live cartridges, four cutlasses, three axes, and several charms believed to be associated with the suspects' activities.

Security sources described the seizure as a significant blow to criminal elements operating within the state, noting that the weapons could have been used to perpetrate violent crimes, including armed robbery, cult-related attacks, and political violence.

The police, however, revealed that investigations have expanded beyond the three suspects, as efforts are currently underway to track down and apprehend other members of the gang who reportedly fled during the operation.

"Investigation is ongoing to arrest other fleeing gang members, and all the suspects will be charged in court upon completion of the investigation," Ojelabi stated.

Reacting to the successful operation, the Commissioner of Police in Osun State, CP Ibrahim Gotan, praised officers of the Anti-Robbery Unit for their professionalism, vigilance, and swift response in handling the case.

The Commissioner noted that the arrest demonstrates the Command's unwavering commitment to combating criminality and ensuring the safety of residents across the state.

He further reassured members of the public that the police would continue to intensify intelligence gathering, surveillance operations, and proactive policing strategies aimed at preventing crime and maintaining law and order.

"The Command remains committed to ridding Osun State of all forms of criminality and ensuring that residents can go about their lawful activities without fear," the Commissioner said.

The Osun State Police Command also called on residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by promptly reporting suspicious movements and activities within their communities.

Authorities emphasized that community participation remains crucial in the fight against crime, adding that timely information from residents often plays a key role in preventing criminal attacks and securing arrests.

The latest operation underscores the determination of security agencies to confront cultism, political violence, and other emerging threats, while reinforcing public confidence in ongoing efforts to safeguard lives and property across Osun State