The Lagos State Police Command has apprehended five suspected cult members following a violent confrontation between rival groups in the Onireke and Isashi areas of Badagry.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Command’s spokesperson, SP Abimbola Adebisi, said the suspects, aged between 28 and 43, were arrested during a swift, coordinated operation that averted further violence and restored order to the affected communities.
According to Adebisi, officers responded to a distress call at around 10:00 p.m. on Saturday, reporting a clash between rival cult groups. Tactical teams and detectives were immediately deployed to the scene, where they rescued three injured victims. The victims were taken to the hospital for treatment.
“Unfortunately, one of the victims was later confirmed dead by the doctor on duty at Badagry General Hospital,” Adebisi added.
She explained that the police carried out a raid in the area, leading to the arrest of five suspects believed to be involved in the attack.
Items recovered during the operation included a locally made pistol, two pump-action guns, 52 live cartridges, two used cartridges, a Toyota Avalon (registration number KTU 610 JB), a laptop, several mobile phones, and other dangerous weapons.
The spokesperson said the suspects remain in custody and will be charged to court after the completion of investigations. She also noted that efforts are ongoing to track down other gang members still at large, with intensified patrols and surveillance to prevent possible retaliatory attacks.
The Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, praised the officers for their quick response and professionalism. He reiterated the command’s commitment to tackling cultism and other criminal activities across the state.
Jimoh urged residents to stay vigilant, obey the law, and promptly report any suspicious movements to the nearest police station.