Some of the suspects
By John Dike, Osogbo
Osun State Police Command has arrested 24 suspected cultists and political thugs as part of intensified operations to curb violent crimes and ensure a peaceful atmosphere ahead of the 2026 governorship election.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Gotan, disclosed this on Monday during a press briefing at the State Police Headquarters in Osogbo.
He said the Command had sustained aggressive operations against cultism, political thuggery and other violent crimes across the state, noting that some of the recent incidents had been politicised.
According to the police commissioner, the Command remains committed to protecting lives and property and will not relent in bringing perpetrators of violent crimes to justice.
“The Command is fully aware of the recent cult-related killings and acts of thuggery threatening the peace of the state, some of which have been given political undertones.
“Through intensified operations, the Command has arrested several suspects linked to these crimes and remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of all residents,” Gotan said.
The commissioner announced the arrest of 24 suspects allegedly linked to cult-related activities and other violent crimes across the state, adding that investigations are ongoing to determine the extent of their involvement.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the Command to rid Osun of criminal elements before, during and after the forthcoming governorship election.
Gotan warned cultists, political thugs and other criminal elements to desist from acts capable of disrupting public peace or be prepared to face the full weight of the law.
“I am using this opportunity to warn all criminally minded individuals, including cultists, political thugs and other troublemakers, to desist from activities capable of disrupting public peace and order or face the full wrath of the law,” he warned.
The police commissioner also assured residents that the Command would remain professional, neutral and non-partisan in the discharge of its constitutional responsibilities.
He appealed to members of the public to continue supporting the police with credible and timely information that would aid crime prevention and enhance security across the state.
Gotan appreciated journalists and other stakeholders for their continued collaboration with the Command, describing their support as critical to the fight against crime and criminality in Osun State.
