The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, has ordered a full investigation into the controversial release of six suspected cult members by a Tactical Team operating in Okokomaiko, a suburb of Lagos.
The suspects, believed to be members of the deadly Aiye cult group, were earlier arrested in connection with a series of cult-related killings and armed robberies that rocked the Agric area of Ojo Local Government Area about three years ago.
Residents of the community are now gripped by fear following the sudden release of the suspects, who have reportedly started visiting homes, asking landlords and community leaders to drop the case.
Speaking anonymously, a concerned community leader expressed shock and disappointment at the police’s handling of the case. “The Tactical Team has a lot of explanation to do. They advised the cult boys to beg us. Now, we are afraid they may turn violent if we don’t cooperate,” the leader said.
He explained that after the cultists were arrested, police recovered guns and charms from them. However, the situation took a troubling turn when the police charged the suspects to court without informing the community.
“Worse still, they secretly withdrew the original 8-count charge and filed a weaker 2-count charge. That gave the magistrate little choice but to grant them bail,” the leader added.
The development has sparked public outrage, prompting CP Jimoh to take swift action. A committee of senior officers has been set up to investigate the case, and the Tactical Commander involved has been removed from his position to ensure a fair process.
Spokesperson for the Lagos State Police Command, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, said the Command will not tolerate any form of misconduct. “If any officer is found guilty, strict disciplinary action will be taken. The Lagos Police does not condone corruption or compromise,” he said.
Cult-related violence has remained a major concern in Lagos, especially in areas like Ojo, where gang rivalries and insecurity have claimed many lives. Residents are now calling for justice and tighter security measures to protect communities.en clash violently, leaving behind trails of fear, injury, and loss.
