The Lagos state Police command has dealt a major blow to cult-related violence across the state with the arrest of 135 suspected cultists during coordinated raids that disrupted the annual July 7 initiation ceremonies of various cult groups across the state.
Addressing journalists at the command headquarters, Ikeja Thursday, the Commissioner of Police, CP Tijani Fatai, said the operation was the outcome of intelligence-led policing, aggressive raids, convoy patrols and strategic deployment of tactical teams across identified criminal black spots in Lagos.
The police boss said July 7 has over the years become a notorious date used by cult groups to initiate new members, prompting the command to launch a statewide operation aimed at preventing violence and dismantling the criminal networks.
The police recovered 15 locally-made Beretta pistols, one English-made Beretta pistol, one locally-made revolver, eight other locally-fabricated firearms, nine battle axes, seven machetes, illicit drugs, alcoholic drinks, mobile phones and assorted charms during the operation.
CP Fatai stated that the suspects were arrested at different locations, including notorious black spots where they had allegedly gathered for initiation activities, adding that none of them was arrested in their homes.