Police bust cult initiation, arrest 14, recover 3 guns in Ogun

By John Ogunsemore

Three locally-made pistols and charms were among items recovered when the police bust a cult initiation exercise in Ipara-Remo, Ogun State, and arrested 14 suspects on Saturday.

This was disclosed in a statement signed by Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of the Ogun State Police Command, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi.

He said, “On 24th January 2026, at approximately 0120 hours, actionable intelligence revealed that members of the Eiye Confraternity had gathered in large numbers at a bush location in Ipara-Remo, Ogun State, planning to initiate new members and conspire to breach the peace through unlawful assembly.

“Acting swiftly, a joint team of operatives from the Anti-Cultism Unit and the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT), supported by personnel from Ipara/Isara Divisions, conducted a coordinated sweep operation, arresting fourteen(14) suspects, comprising thirteen(13) males and one (1) female.”

Among those apprehended were Solomon Shobamiwo, also known as “Solo Hot”; Farooq Ogunsola; Toheeb Abolade; Balogun Williams; Ayodele Abdulkareem, Adedapo Ogunsanya, Toheeb Saka, Akpan Dara, Micheal Olakemi, Habeeb Olayinka, Dapo Adeola, Adetunji Adeyemi, Henry Kingsley, all males and the only female in the group, Nanso Blessing.

Babaseyi said the suspects were undergoing investigations and would be charged to court upon completion of investigation.

“Ongoing sweep operations and intelligence-led patrols continue across the axis to apprehend other fleeing suspects and ensure sustained peace, security, and public safety for residents and communities,” he stated.

The statement quoted the Commissioner of Police, CP Lanre Ogunlowo as strongly condemning unlawful assembly, breach of peace, and all cult-related criminal activities in Ogun State.

He called on youths to renounce cultism and criminal associations.

“Residents, students, parents, and stakeholders are assured that the Ogun State Police Command remains fully committed to protecting lives and property,” the statement reads in part.

Babaseyi said members of the public were encouraged to report any suspicious activities or security concerns through the command’s emergency lines.