The Lagos State Police Command has arrested 135 suspected cultists and recovered 26 firearms during a statewide operation aimed at preventing violence associated with the annual 7/7 cult celebration and initiation activities.
The operation, which was carried out simultaneously across identified criminal hideouts and black spots in the state, involved Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers (DPOs), Tactical Commanders, and operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU).
According to the Command, the exercise was conducted on the directive of the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Tijani Fatai, PSC, MNIPS, following credible intelligence indicating that rival cult groups were planning attacks and other criminal activities as part of the annual 7/7 observance.
The police disclosed that the coordinated raids led to the arrest of 135 suspected cult members and the recovery of 26 firearms. Also recovered were 16 dangerous weapons, including cutlasses, battle axes, daggers, and knives, as well as cult insignia, assorted charms, 11 bottles of different alcoholic beverages, substances suspected to be Indian hemp and other illicit drugs, and six mobile phones.
The Command noted that the operation was designed to proactively neutralize threats posed by cult groups and prevent any breakdown of law and order during the period traditionally associated with cult-related activities.
Police authorities stated that investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend other members of the criminal gangs linked to the suspects. The arrested suspects are expected to be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
The Lagos State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining public safety and security across the state and urged residents to continue supporting law enforcement efforts by providing timely and credible information on suspicious activities.
The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abimbola Adebisi, announced the outcome of the operation in a statement issued in Ikeja on Tuesday.
