Police arrest two soldiers, 19 cultists in Ogun midnight raid

The Ogun State Police Command has arrested 21 suspected cultists, including two serving soldiers, during a midnight raid on a hotel in Osiele, Abeokuta.

The operation, which took place on Friday night, was carried out by a combined police team from the Odeda and Aregbe Divisions, the Anti-Cultism Unit, and the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team. It was led by Superintendent of Police Adejoh Israel.

According to the state Police Public Relations Officer, SP Omolola Odutola, the raid followed credible intelligence indicating a gathering of suspected members of the notorious Aiye confraternity.

Items recovered from the suspects included a cut-to-size locally made firearm, a branded axe, and several blue berets—items commonly associated with cult activity.

“All 21 suspects have been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department, Anti-Cultism Unit, at Eleweran, Abeokuta, for further investigation,” Odutola said.

She encouraged members of the public to continue sharing useful information with security agencies to aid ongoing anti-crime efforts.

The police command reassured residents of its commitment to keeping Ogun communities safe and free from cult-related violence.