By Kayode Sanni-Arewa
Operatives of the Kwara state police command have arrested 46 persons in connection with recent disturbances and fracas amongst rival cult groups which has claimed the life of at least one person in Ilorin, the Kwara state capital.
Of this figure, the police said 14 of the suspects were linked to recent clash involving rival cult groups in different parts of the state capital.
Rival cult gangs had engaged themselves in free-for-all in some parts of Ilorin, the state capital.
The battle grounds where the cult gang engaged in supremacy battle and reprisal attacks included Baboko, ile Onimago, Adabata, and Eruda, Ile Alawo and Bolanta areas, all within the heart of Ilorin metropolis.
Confirming the development in a statement Monday, the state’s Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Ejire Adeyemi- Toun, said on April 13th, 2024, suspected cultists attacked and fatally shot Adelodun Farouq, a 36-year-old resident of Eleran compound at Ile film Bolanta area of Ilorin.”
She said: “The victim was buried according to Islamic rites without the knowledge of the police. Preliminary investigation indicates that one Abubakar Gobir, a member of the Ayee confraternity, was involved in the crime.
Later that evening, at about 2000hrs, reports emerged of further cult activities in Ile-Alawo compound, center, Igboro.
“Unidentified cultists assaulted Abdullahi Alao, a 35- year- old motorcycle rider, with a machete cut to his head.
“Alao was subsequently taken to an unknown location by his younger brother.
“On April 14th, 2024, another incident of criminal conspiracy involving suspected cultists was reported in various areas including Baboko, ile Onimago, Adabata, and Eruda.
“Miscreants engaged in a violent confrontation and a free for all combat, using weapons such as broken bottles and stones, leading to the blockage of Baboko Road.
“Swift action was taken by the DPO, C Division and six patrol teams, supported by men of the community policing were mobilised to quell the disturbance.”