The Lagos State Police Command has arrested 135 suspected cultists and recovered 26 firearms during coordinated raids across identified criminal hideouts and black spots in the state ahead of the annual 7/7 cult celebration and initiation activities.

The operation was carried out by Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers (DPOs), Tactical Commanders and the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) on the directive of the Commissioner of Police, Tijani Fatai, following credible intelligence on planned attacks by rival cult groups.

According to a statement issued on Wednesday by the Police Public Relations Officer, Abimbola Adebisi, the intelligence-led operation was aimed at preventing cult-related violence and other criminal activities associated with the 7/7 celebration.

The police said the raids resulted in the recovery of 26 firearms, 16 dangerous weapons, including cutlasses, battle axes, daggers and knives, as well as cult insignia, assorted charms, 11 bottles of different alcoholic beverages, substances suspected to be Indian hemp and other illicit drugs, and six mobile phones.

The command disclosed that the operation was launched after intelligence reports revealed plans by rival cult groups to unleash attacks and engage in criminal activities across parts of the state.
The police said investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend other members of the criminal gangs involved.

The command assured residents that all suspects would be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations, while reaffirming its commitment to sustaining intelligence-led operations aimed at protecting lives and property across Lagos State.