A yet-to-be-confirmed number of suspected cultists have been arrested across various parts of Lagos State following a major crackdown launched by the Lagos State Police Command on Monday.
The arrests came less than 24 hours after the police issued a strong warning to cult groups ahead of the annual “7/7 Cultism Day,” notorious for violent clashes and reprisals among rival groups.
According to a statement released on Sunday by the Command’s spokesperson, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, the police had mobilised multiple tactical teams—including the Anti-Cultism Squads, Special Tactical Squads, the Police Mobile Force, the State Intelligence Department, and other special units—aimed at combating cult-related violence and ensuring public safety.
Sources within the police told our correspondent on Wednesday that raids were carried out in areas such as Ikorodu, Idimu, Mushin, Bariga, and Iyana Iba, where suspected cult members had converged to mark the day. The police reportedly recovered various exhibits from the suspects during the raids.
“The combined efforts of officers from different tactical units led to the arrest of several suspects who were planning to celebrate the cultism day. Weapons and other exhibits, including charms, were recovered during the operations, especially in Idimu and Iyana Iba,” one police source revealed.
Another source confirmed that the arrested suspects have been transferred to the state command headquarters for further investigation and possible prosecution.
“The police acted swiftly based on credible information from some residents. All arrested individuals have been moved to the command headquarters. They may be paraded, but that decision is yet to be made. The operation is still ongoing and will not end with Monday’s raids—it will be sustained,” the source added.
Efforts to reach SP Hundeyin for comments were unsuccessful, as calls and text messages to his phone were not returned as of the time of filing this report.
However, Hundeyin had earlier confirmed in a public statement that 52 suspected cultists were arrested on Sunday during joint raids on known hideouts. He noted that the suspects were allegedly planning attacks on innocent residents in connection with the 7/7 celebrations.
“Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, held an operational meeting with commanders of all Anti-Cultism Squads and Special Tactical Teams on Sunday, charging them to ensure no cult group disrupts the peace of the state,” the statement said.
He added that all crime prevention operatives and detectives in the state remain on high alert to protect both residents and visitors.