Operatives of the Lagos State Police Command have arrested 135 suspected cultists and recovered 26 firearms during coordinated raids on criminal hideouts and black spots across the state in a major operation aimed at preventing cult-related violence associated with the July 7 (7/7) celebration and initiation activities.
The operation was carried out by Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers (DPOs), Tactical Commanders and the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) on the directive of the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, Fatai Tijani, following credible intelligence.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, Abimbola Adebisi, intelligence reports indicated that rival cult groups were planning coordinated attacks and other criminal activities in connection with the annual 7/7 cult celebration.
During the simultaneous raids, police operatives recovered 26 firearms, 16 dangerous weapons including cutlasses, battle axes, daggers and knives, cult insignia, assorted charms, 11 bottles of different alcoholic brands, substances suspected to be Indian hemp and other illicit drugs, as well as six mobile phones.
The police said the operation was part of proactive measures to forestall cult-related violence and enhance public safety across Lagos.
The command added that investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend other members of the criminal gangs, while the 135 suspects already in custody will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
The Lagos State Police Command reiterated its commitment to sustaining intelligence-led operations aimed at tackling cultism and other violent crimes across the state.