Cultists shoot one, police deploy tactical teams as Osun gang clashes continue

Following a resurgence of cult-related violence in parts of Osogbo, the Osun State Police Command has deployed tactical units to restore order in affected neighbourhoods, specifically targeting the Owo-Eba and Arowomole areas.

The Command’s decisive response follows a fresh attack yesterday at Arowomole, where suspected cultists shot Rasaq Wahab, popularly known as “Ojo Iku”.

Police confirmed that Wahab was promptly evacuated to a hospital, where he is currently receiving treatment and responding well.

This latest shooting comes just days after a violent clash on Friday in the Owo-Eba area, which claimed the lives of Adebayo Taoreed (“Small Rugged”) and Oluwaseyi Daniel (“OSHA”), while several others suffered gunshot injuries.

In a statement released by the Command’s spokesperson, Abiodun Ojelabi, Commissioner of Police Ibrahim Zungura described the recurring violence as deeply disturbing and ordered all tactical teams to relocate to the Oke-Baale axis until normalcy is fully restored.

He said the tactical units have been instructed to conduct intelligence-led raids on criminal hideouts and identified cult hotspots within the limits of the law.

The police noted that all related cases have been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for detailed investigation.

“The Commissioner has directed area commanders, divisional police officers, and tactical commanders to intensify patrols, gather actionable intelligence, and maintain a sustained presence across identified flashpoints in the metropolis,” Ojelabi stated.

Reassuring residents, the Command emphasised that the security situation remains under control and urged the public to go about their daily routines without fear.

However, police warned cult members, sponsors, and sympathisers that no safe haven will be granted to anyone threatening public peace.

The Command appealed to parents, traditional leaders, and community members to assist law enforcement by providing timely, credible information on suspicious movements.

Residents were also advised to remain calm and refrain from spreading unverified information capable of causing panic.