The Zone 2 Police Command has arrested 20 suspects linked to cultism, armed robbery and the killing of a police officer during a violent incident in the Ilesi community near Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State.
The attack occurred on 29 November 2025, when suspected members of the Neo Black Movement (NBM), also known as the Aye fraternity, reportedly invaded the area in retaliation for an earlier assault on one of their members.
Their activities created panic, drawing the attention of a police officer who lived in the community and other concerned residents.
Police said the suspects opened fire upon sighting the officer and residents, leading to the officer’s death and injuries to two people. The assailants fled the scene shortly afterwards.
Following the incident, operatives of the Zonal Dragon Squad launched a coordinated operation.
Acting on intelligence, officers raided a hideout in the Ogbere area of Ogun State around midnight on 1 December 2025, where the suspects were believed to be regrouping.
The operation led to the arrest of 20 individuals allegedly connected to cult-related activities, murder, armed robbery and unlawful possession of firearms.
Items recovered from the suspects include a Nissan Micra car (registration number KSH 793 XA), several locally made firearms, 29 live cartridges, 19 mobile phones, ₦72,000 in cash, a wristwatch, jewellery and ATM cards.
Police also confirmed that one key suspect remains at large and is being tracked as part of ongoing investigations.
Security has been reinforced across the affected areas to restore calm and protect residents.
The Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 2, AIG Adegoke Fayoade, urged the public to promptly report any suspicious activity and assured that all those responsible for the attack will be brought to justice.
