The Kwara State Police Command has arrested two suspected cult members and recovered a locally fabricated firearm during intelligence-led operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks operating within Ilorin metropolis.
The suspects, identified as 33-year-old Abdullahi Jimoh Omotoho and Abdullahi Kareem Kawu, popularly known as “B-Red,” were apprehended in separate operations following credible intelligence and sustained surveillance by operatives of the Command.
The state Police Public Relations Officer, Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, disclosed the development in a statement issued on Friday.
Ejire-Adeyemi stated that the arrests marked another major breakthrough in the command’s sustained offensive against cultism and other violent crimes in Kwara State.
According to the statement, Omotoho, who is suspected to be a member of the Klans-Avea cult group operating within Ilorin metropolis, was arrested during an intelligence-led operation.
“Acting on credible intelligence and sustained surveillance, operatives of the Command arrested one Abdullahi Jimoh Omotoho, 33 years old, a suspected member of a notorious cult group (Klans-Avea) operating within Ilorin metropolis.
“During the operation, a locally fabricated Beretta pistol was recovered from the suspect,” the statement added.
The command further disclosed that intelligence generated during the investigation led to the arrest of another suspected cult member.
“Further intelligence generated in the course of the investigation led to the arrest of another suspect, Abdullahi Kareem Kawu, popularly known as ‘B-Red,’ of Eiye Confraternity who is currently assisting investigators in ongoing efforts to dismantle criminal networks associated with cult-related activities within the State,” the statement read.
According to the police, the operation is part of an intensified campaign against cultism, violent crimes and other threats to public safety across the state.
“The operation forms part of the command’s intensified campaign against cultism, violent crimes, and other threats to public safety.
“Preliminary investigations have provided useful leads regarding the activities of criminal gangs operating within the metropolis, while efforts are ongoing to identify and apprehend other members of the groups involved,” the statement said.
The Commissioner of Police in Kwara State, Ojo Adekimi, commended the operatives involved in the operation for their professionalism and dedication.
“I commend the professionalism, vigilance, and commitment of the operatives involved in the operation.
“The command remains determined to sustain intelligence-led policing and proactive crime-fighting strategies aimed at ensuring that criminal elements have no safe haven anywhere within Kwara State,” he said.
The police boss also warned individuals involved in cultism and other violent crimes to abandon such activities or face the full weight of the law.
“Residents should continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information capable of aiding ongoing efforts to maintain peace and security across the State,” he added.
The command disclosed that both suspects remain in police custody and are assisting with ongoing investigations, adding that they would be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
On June 4, the Lagos State Police Command arrested four suspected cultists and the recovery of firearms, ammunition and a knife during an operation in the Egbeda area of the state.
The suspects were arrested following intelligence reports of a suspected cult initiation ceremony taking place at midnight within the area.
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