Kwara police arrest 2 suspected cultists and recover a locally fabricated firearm during intelligence-led operations in Ilorin

Khe Kwara State Police Command has arrested two suspected cult members and recovered a locally fabricated firearm during separate intelligence-led operations in Ilorin metropolis, as part of an intensified campaign against cultism and violent crime across the state.

The arrests were announced on Friday by the Police Public Relations Officer, Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, who described the operation as another significant breakthrough in the command’s sustained efforts to dismantle criminal networks threatening public safety.

According to the statement, the first suspect, 33-year-old Abdullahi Jimoh Omotoho, was arrested following credible intelligence and sustained surveillance by police operatives. Investigators believe Omotoho is a member of the Klans-Avea cult group operating within Ilorin metropolis.

“Acting on credible intelligence and sustained surveillance, operatives of the Command arrested one Abdullahi Jimoh Omotoho, 33 years old, a suspected member of a notorious cult group (Klans-Avea) operating within Ilorin metropolis.

“During the operation, a locally fabricated Beretta pistol was recovered from the suspect,” the statement said.

The police said intelligence obtained during the investigation subsequently led to the arrest of a second suspect, Abdullahi Kareem Kawu, popularly known as “B-Red,” who is suspected to be affiliated with the Eiye Confraternity.

“Further intelligence generated in the course of the investigation led to the arrest of another suspect, Abdullahi Kareem Kawu, popularly known as ‘B-Red,’ of Eiye Confraternity who is currently assisting investigators in ongoing efforts to dismantle criminal networks associated with cult-related activities within the State,” the statement added.

The command explained that the operation forms part of its proactive strategy to curb cultism, violent crimes and other security threats across Kwara State.

Police said preliminary investigations have already yielded valuable leads regarding the activities of criminal gangs operating within Ilorin metropolis, while efforts are continuing to identify and arrest other suspected members linked to the groups.

Kwara State Commissioner of Police, Ojo Adekimi, commended the officers involved in the operation for their professionalism and commitment to intelligence-driven policing.

“I commend the professionalism, vigilance, and commitment of the operatives involved in the operation.

“The command remains determined to sustain intelligence-led policing and proactive crime-fighting strategies aimed at ensuring that criminal elements have no safe haven anywhere within Kwara State,” Adekimi said.

The commissioner also issued a stern warning to individuals involved in cultism and other violent crimes, urging them to abandon criminal activities or face the full weight of the law.

He further appealed to residents to continue supporting security agencies by providing timely and credible information capable of preventing crime and enhancing public safety.

Both suspects remain in police custody and are assisting investigators. The command said they will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.

The latest arrests underscore the police command’s ongoing offensive against organised criminal groups in Kwara.

Intelligence-led operations have increasingly become a central strategy for law enforcement agencies in tackling cult-related violence, illegal firearms possession and other organised crimes across Nigeria.

Earlier this month, on June 4, the Lagos State Police Command arrested four suspected cultists during an operation in the Egbeda area of Lagos.

The operation led to the recovery of firearms, ammunition and a knife after intelligence reports indicated that a suspected cult initiation ceremony was taking place in the area.

The Kwara Police Command said it remains committed to sustaining the momentum of its operations to ensure that residents continue to enjoy a safer and more secure environment.