FIC Report (Lagos State) – Operatives of the Lagos State Police Command have foiled planned cult-related violence linked to the annual 7/7 celebration, arresting 135 suspected cultists in coordinated raids across criminal hideouts and black spots in the state.
The intelligence-driven operation, carried out on the directive of the Commissioner of Police, CP Tijani Fatai, PSC, MNIPS, involved Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, Tactical Commanders, and the Violent Crime Response Unit.
According to the Command, the simultaneous raids targeted locations identified as potential flashpoints following credible intelligence that rival cult groups were mobilizing to launch attacks and commit other crimes during the 7/7 celebration.
“The operation was proactive and intelligence-led. Our goal was to deny criminal elements the opportunity to unleash violence on innocent citizens and to ensure that Lagos remains safe before, during, and after the 7/7 date,” a senior police officer involved in the operation said.
Items recovered during the raids include 26 firearms, 16 dangerous weapons such as cutlasses, battle axes, daggers and knives, cult insignia, assorted charms, 11 bottles of assorted alcoholic drinks, substances suspected to be Indian hemp and other illicit drugs, as well as six mobile phones.
The Police stated that the massive recovery underscores the determination of criminal groups to cause mayhem, but noted that the swift intervention prevented any major incident.
“We will not allow Lagos to be turned into a battleground for cultists. This crackdown sends a clear message that the Command will continue to act decisively against any group planning violence,” the Command stated.
Investigations are ongoing to apprehend other fleeing members of the gangs, while the 135 suspects currently in custody will be charged to court at the conclusion of investigations.
The Lagos State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining proactive operations against cultism and other violent crimes.
“We urge residents to remain vigilant and continue providing credible information that will aid law enforcement in keeping the state safe. Security is a collective responsibility,” the Command added.
Sourced by ,
DIMAKA C. I
DD ( Infor. and PR ) .
