The Lagos State Police Command has apprehended a 27-year-old suspected cultist and recovered a locally made pistol loaded with one live cartridge during a stop-and-search operation in the Ijaiye/Ojokoro area of the state.

The command’s spokesperson, SP Abimbola Adebisi, disclosed this in a statement on Saturday in Lagos.

Ms Adebisi said the suspect was apprehended after police operatives intercepted a motorcycle carrying three passengers during a routine operation.

She said a search conducted on the passengers led to the recovery of the firearm and a live cartridge from the suspect.

According to her, the suspect confessed during preliminary interrogation to being a member of the prohibited Eiye Confraternity.

She said the suspect told investigators that he and other members of the cult, who escaped arrest, were on their way to attack some individuals before they were intercepted by the police.

“The suspect is currently in police custody, while efforts are ongoing to arrest the fleeing members of the criminal group and recover additional weapons that may be in their possession,” she said.

Ms Adebisi said the state commissioner of police, Fatai Tijani, reaffirmed the command’s commitment to intelligence-led policing and proactive operations to combat cultism and other violent crimes across the state.

The spokesperson urged residents to remain vigilant and continue providing timely, credible information to help the police prevent crime and ensure the safety and security of lives and property. 

(NAN)