The Osun State Police Command has arrested 14 suspected criminals, including two suspected cultists, during coordinated operations targeting criminal hideouts across the state.
The arrests followed raids conducted on October 25, 2026, at identified black spots and suspected criminal hideouts in Ode-Oga, Gbonmi, Popo, Isale-Aro, Oja-Oba, Allie and Orisunmibare.
Police spokesperson, Abiodun Ojelabi, said 35 individuals were initially arrested and subjected to screening to determine their possible involvement in criminal activities.
He disclosed that 23 people were subsequently released unconditionally, while 12 others were retained for further investigation.
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The 12 suspects were identified as Oluranti Fatao, 40; Suraju Adebayo, 45; Okunola Sodiq, 27; Ibrahim Sodiq, 35; Ganiyu Sikiru, 28; Moshood Adeleke, 40; Kayoye Oguntayo, 22; Alaudeen Samad, 22; Ridwan Adegbola, 27; Busari Hammad, 30; Abiodun Fiyiola, 29; and Adeleke Olawale, 28.
In a separate operation, police arrested two additional suspected cultists following a violent clash between rival groups at Laoye Street, Ede North Local Government Area, on October 19.
The incident reportedly occurred around 12:30pm when suspected cult members attacked one another and fired gunshots, causing panic among residents.
According to the police, responding officers were ambushed and attacked by armed suspects upon arrival. However, the operatives arrested one suspect, identified as Salaudeen Mujib, who was allegedly found with a locally made cut-to-size firearm.
Mujib reportedly sustained a minor gunshot injury to his right thigh and received medical attention. During interrogation, he allegedly confessed to belonging to the Aye cult group.
A subsequent search of the area led to the arrest of another suspect, Olaposi Afeez, from whom a yellow battle axe and local charms were recovered. He reportedly admitted to being a member of the Eiye confraternity.
The police said both suspects had been charged before a competent court.
The command added that preliminary investigations linked the arrested individuals to alleged offences including extortion, thuggery, illicit drug activities and other acts capable of causing fear among residents.
Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Zungura, said the operations were part of efforts to tackle criminal activities ahead of the 2027 general elections, in line with directives from the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu.
He directed police commanders and tactical teams across the state to sustain intelligence-led operations and intensify efforts to arrest fleeing suspects and recover more weapons.
The commissioner also warned suspected cultists and individuals involved in illegal possession of firearms to desist from criminal activities, urging residents to report suspicious movements to security agencies.
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