The Ondo State Police Command has arrested five suspected cultists following the disruption of a secret gathering in Akoko, in a continued effort to tackle cult-related activities across the state.

The suspects were apprehended by operatives of the Command’s Special Anti-Cultism Squad after credible intelligence from members of the public alerted authorities to suspicious movements at a residential building.

According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, the individuals were allegedly holding a clandestine meeting where they were chanting cult-related slogans and engaging in activities that raised serious concerns among residents.

The police said the intelligence, received on March 27, 2026, prompted a swift response, with operatives mobilised to the location in Akungba Akoko where the building was cordoned off before the suspects were arrested.

Those arrested were identified as Adesuye Dare, Ayeerun Joshua, Ojo Omole, Adu Dele, and Akeju Idowu.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects are members of the Eiye Confraternity, a group widely linked to violent crimes, unlawful gatherings, and threats to public peace and order.

The Command disclosed that the suspects are currently in custody and have made useful statements aiding ongoing investigations into the activities of the group.

It added that efforts were ongoing to uncover the broader network of the syndicate, identify additional members, and prevent any planned criminal activities connected to the cult group.

The Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, commended the prompt and professional conduct of the operatives, as well as the timely information provided by members of the public which led to the success of the operation.

He emphasised the importance of community collaboration in crime prevention and reiterated the Command’s zero-tolerance stance against cultism and other forms of criminality.

The police also urged youths to steer clear of cult-related activities, warning that the consequences are severe, while assuring that the suspects would be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.