Operatives of the Zone 2 Police Command, Onikan, Lagos, have arrested 20 suspected cult members linked to the murder of a police officer and a series of violent attacks in Ilesi, near Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State.
In a statement on Wednesday, the command’s spokesperson, Umma Ayuba, said the attack occurred on November 29 around 9:30 p.m., when members of the Neo Black Movement (Aye Confraternity) stormed the community in retaliation for an earlier assault on one of their members.
As the group moved through the neighbourhood searching for rivals, a police officer who lived in the area intervened alongside residents. The gang immediately opened fire, killing the officer and injuring two others. In a disturbing act of brutality, the suspects amputated the officer’s left hand and fled with it.
Following the incident, the Zonal Dragon Squad launched an intelligence-driven operation. In the early hours of December 1, operatives raided a hideout in the Ogbere area of Ogun State, arresting 20 suspects allegedly involved in the attack and other crimes, including illegal possession of firearms.
Recovered items included a Nissan Micra (KSH 793 XA), four locally made firearms, 29 live cartridges, 19 mobile phones, cash amounting to ₦72,000, jewellery, and ATM cards.
Ayuba added that one suspect believed to be holding the officer’s amputated hand remains at large, with efforts underway to track him down.
She said security has been heightened across the affected areas, while the AIG in charge of Zone 2, Adegoke Fayoade, urged residents to stay alert and report suspicious activities. Fayoade assured that all those responsible for the crimes would be brought to justice.