The Ondo State Police Command in the early hours of Tuesday arrested six suspected cultists during an operation carried out by operatives of the Special Anti-Cultism Squad (SACS).

The suspects were identified as Damilare Kayode, 30; Adejoro Godwin, 30; Adedapo Ogunro, 36; Chisom Okechukwu, 21; Ademulegun Imisi, 26; and Odugunle Bukola, 21.

While confirming the arrest, the police public relations officer in the state, Abayomi Jimoh, disclosed that the suspects were apprehended in Akungba and Iwaro-Akoko in the Akoko South West Local Council Area of the state.

According to Jimoh, the operation was carried out following intel received by the command over the activities of the suspected cultists in the axis.

The police spokesperson stated that the suspects were allegedly involved in activities linked to unlawful confraternities operating within the Akoko axis, an area that has been faced with security challenges.

He said, “The operation, which was conducted in the early hours of Tuesday, June 16, 2026, followed credible intelligence indicating the activities of suspected cult members within the affected areas.

“Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects were allegedly involved in activities linked to unlawful confraternities operating within the Akoko axis, a development that has continued to pose security concerns in some communities.

“A thorough search conducted during the operation led to the recovery of several exhibits believed to be connected with cult-related activities.

“These include five battle axes, one jackknife, various criminal charms, as well as confraternity paraphernalia such as boots, yellow singlets, and face caps. The recovered items have been taken into police custody as exhibits and will form part of the ongoing investigation.

“Investigation into the matter is ongoing, and the suspects will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.

“The Command views the recovery of these items as a major operational success and a clear indication of its determination to proactively dismantle criminal networks before they can carry out acts capable of threatening public peace and safety.

“Intelligence gathered from the operation is currently being analyzed to identify other members of the group and uncover the full extent of their activities within and beyond the affected communities.”unnamed.jpg