The Zone 2 Police Command has arrested 20 suspected members of a violent cult network believed to have carried out the brutal killing of a police officer in the Ilese community, near Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State.
The arrest followed days of intensive intelligence gathering after the late-night incident on November 29, when the cultists — allegedly members of the Neo Black Movement (Aye Confraternity) — invaded Ilese in what security sources describe as a retaliatory strike. The gang was said to be avenging an earlier attack on one of their members.
Witnesses reported that the attackers stormed the community and opened fire indiscriminately, causing panic among residents. A police officer who attempted to intervene was shot dead. In a shocking escalation of violence, the assailants reportedly severed his left hand before escaping into the night, a development that has since heightened fears of ritual-linked cult activity in the area.
Confirming the arrests, the spokesperson for Zone 2 Police Command, Umma Ayuba, said the breakthrough came after a coordinated operation targeted at the group’s hideout in the Ogbere axis of Ogun State. The tactical raid led to the apprehension of 20 suspects believed to have taken part in the deadly attack. Weapons and other incriminating items were recovered during the operation.
Ayuba noted that the arrests represent a significant step in dismantling the criminal network responsible for rising cult activities across parts of Ogun State, especially around Ijebu-Ode and its neighbouring communities.
Security analysts warn that the brutality of the attack — especially the mutilation of the slain officer — underscores a disturbing trend of escalating violence among cult groups in the region. They stress the need for sustained intelligence-driven policing, community vigilance, and stronger inter-agency collaboration to curb similar incidents.
Residents of Ilese and surrounding communities have continued to express relief over the arrests but are urging security agencies to intensify patrols and surveillance to deter reprisals.
Police authorities say investigations are ongoing to track down other fleeing members of the gang, while the 20 arrested suspects will be charged to court upon conclusion of the preliminary investigation.
The Ogun State Police Command has also appealed for continued public cooperation, assuring that efforts to stamp out cult-related violence remain a top priority.
