LAGOS, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- The Lagos State Police Command have confirmed the arrest of 42 suspected cultists and declared its readiness to clampdown on illegal manufacturers of firearms in the state.
This was disclosed on 19 April by the state Commissioner of Police, Idowu Owohunwa, during a parade of the suspected cult members who were arrested in the state.
According to the comissioner, the suspected cultists were arrested during different operations by different teams of the Tactical Squads in Ikorodu, Ijora and Ebute-Metta areas of the state.
CP Owohunwa told journalists that, “We have decided not only to arrest cultists but to go after the fabricators of arms to nip attacks on innocent people or their perceived enemies in the bud.”
“Today, we are parading 42 suspected cultists. We intend to carry out the battle to their doorsteps or their enclaves.
“We will deploy every asset within our disposal. We will deny them space to operate in the state. So, we are advising them to turn a new leaf or face the wrath of the Police.”
C P Owohunwa also added: “We want to reassure Lagos residents that the battle to rid the state of cultists and other criminals is a promise that must be fulfilled.”
“We appeal to the members of the public for their support as this battle against cultists and other criminals is a common battle. Ten arms, knives and thirteen live cartridges and assorted charms were recovered from the cultists.”
Continuing, the Police boss stated that the aim is to deploy its intelligence assets in preparation for whenever these perpetrators strike.
“We want to remain steps ahead of them in order to restore peace in Lagos. Through the officers deployed for the operation within the first two weeks we have made significant breakthroughs which are worthy of notification for members of the public,” CP Owohinwa also said.
He pointed out that with help of the anti-cultism operatives “we have the arrest was made possible in Orile, Ijora , Ebute-Metta and Ikorodu.”
CP Owohunwa also revealed that: “In the course of the operation, a total of ten arms of different descriptions were recovered from the cultists which includes; six locally made shotguns, Three fabricated semi automatic pistols and one English made pistol. Three axes, three cutlasses, three daggers, knives and thirteen live cartridges and multiple charms.”
“I want to warn the cultists in line with the promise I made to Lagos residents. We will deploy all our operational assets and I will provide the leadership that will sustain the battle on the cultists who threaten the internal security of the state.”
The CP asserted that the Lagos State Command under his watch will deny them the space with a forceful manner.
He further assured residents that there will be no form of relenting on the part of the Nigeria Police.