Lagos Police Arrest 135 Cultists in Major Raid

On July 7, 2023, the Lagos State Police Command conducted a coordinated raid to disrupt annual cult initiation ceremonies, resulting in the arrest of 135 suspects across various locations identified as criminal hotspots. The operation, led by Commissioner of Police Tijani Fatai, was prompted by intelligence reports indicating that this date had become notorious for cult groups initiating new members.

During the operation, police recovered 15 locally made Beretta pistols, one English-made Beretta pistol, eight locally made revolvers, nine battle axes, seven machetes, illicit drugs, alcoholic beverages, mobile phones, and assorted charms. The police assured the public that no arrests would be made at the homes of suspects, as thorough investigations would be conducted to ensure appropriate charges.

Commissioner Fatai urged parents to monitor their children closely and discourage them from joining cult groups, warning that anyone engaging in criminal activities would face the full weight of the law. The police command aims to sustain intelligence-driven operations throughout the year to combat cultism and violent crime in Lagos.