Operatives of the Zone 2 Police Command, Onikan, Lagos, have arrested 20 suspected cultists linked to the gruesome killing of a police officer in Ilesi, near Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State.
The spokesperson for the command, SP Umma Ayuba, confirmed the arrests in a statement on Wednesday. She said the suspects are believed to be members of the Neo Black Movement (NBM).
According to Ayuba, the incident occurred on November 29 at about 9:30pm, when the gang stormed Ilesi community in what was believed to be a reprisal attack over an earlier assault on one of their members.
“As they moved through the community in search of rival cultists, the violent operation drew the attention of a police officer residing in the area, along with some residents,” she stated.
The cultists reportedly opened fire immediately, killing the officer on the spot and injuring two residents. In a shocking twist, the attackers amputated the officer’s left hand and fled with it.
Ayuba said operatives of the Zonal Dragon Squad launched an intelligence-driven operation that led to a raid on a suspected hideout in Ogbere in the early hours of December 1.
“The operation resulted in the arrest of 20 suspects connected to the brutal attack and other offences, including unlawful possession of firearms,” she said.
Recovered items included:
One Nissan Micra car (Reg. No. KSH 793 XA)
A double-barrel short gun
A single-barrel short gun
Two locally made pistols
29 live cartridges
19 mobile phones
N72,000 cash
A wristwatch, three necklaces and three ATM cards
Ayuba added that one suspect is still on the run and is believed to be in possession of the officer’s amputated hand.
She noted that security has been strengthened across Ilesi and surrounding communities.
The AIG Zone 2, Adegoke Fayoade, urged residents to remain vigilant and support the police with credible information. He also vowed that all persons involved in the crime would be brought to justice.
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