Operatives of the Zone 2 Police Command, Onikan, Lagos, have arrested 20 suspected cultists in connection with the murder of a police officer and related violent crimes in Ilesi, near Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State.

The command’s spokesperson, Umma Ayuba, confirmed this in a statement issued in Lagos.

According to Ayuba, the incident occurred on November 29 at about 9:30 pm, when suspected members of the Neo Black Movement, also known as Aye Confraternity, invaded the Ilesi area in retaliation for an earlier attack on one of their members.

“As the suspects moved through the neighbourhood in search of rival cultists, tension escalated, drawing the attention of a police officer who lived in the community, along with some residents.

“Upon sighting them, the armed cultists opened fire, killing the officer on the spot and leaving two other residents severely injured. In a gruesome twist, the attackers amputated the officer’s left hand and fled with it,” she said.

Ayuba said that operatives of the Zonal Dragon Squad launched a coordinated intelligence-led operation.

“In the early hours of December 1 at about 12:00 am, officers raided a hideout in the Ogbere area of Ogun, where the suspects were believed to be regrouping.

“The operation resulted in the apprehension of 20 suspects linked to the violent attack, as well as other offences including unlawful possession of firearms,” she said.

The image maker said that the police also recovered several exhibits during the raid.

“Items recovered include one Nissan Micra (Reg. No. KSH 793 XA), a double-barrelled shot gun, a single-barreled short gun, two locally made single-barrel pistols, 29 live cartridges, 19 mobile phones, N72,000 cash, a wristwatch, three necklaces and three ATM cards, ” she said.

According to her, efforts are ongoing to apprehend a suspect still at large, who is believed to be in possession of the late officer’s amputated hand.

The spokesperson said that security had been intensified across the affected communities as investigations continue.

She said that the AIG of Police in charge of the zone, Adegoke Fayoade, urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities.

“AIG Fayoade, while urging residents to remain vigilant, reiterated his commitment to ensuring that all perpetrators of these heinous crimes are made to face the full wrath of the law,” Ayuba said.