The Lagos State Police Command has arrested 135 suspected cultists in raids conducted across the state to prevent violence linked to the annual July 7 cult celebrations. The operation, carried out in the days leading up to the event, targeted known criminal hideouts and black spots in several high-risk local government areas, including Alimosho, Oshodi-Isolo, and Kosofe.
According to police sources, the raids were intelligence-driven and involved Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers (DPOs), and the Violent Crime Response Unit. The aim was to dismantle cult networks before they could mobilize for the notorious date, which has historically been marked by clashes between rival confraternities such as Eiye, Aiye, and Black Axe. The police leadership had earlier warned that any public display of cult affiliation or procession would be met with strict legal action, and this week’s arrests reflect that commitment.
During the operations, law enforcement agents recovered a significant cache of items from the suspects. These included twenty-six firearms of various calibers, ranging from locally fabricated pistols to more advanced revolvers. In addition, cutlasses, battle axes, cult insignia, charms, alcoholic beverages, and illicit drugs were seized. Many of these items are reportedly used to fortify initiates during violent activities, underscoring the dangerous influence of cult groups in certain Lagos communities.
The Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer confirmed that all 135 suspects are in custody and undergoing thorough screening to determine their individual roles and ranks within their respective cult factions. He stated that investigations are ongoing and that the command is working with other security agencies to track fleeing members and their sponsors. Forensic analysis of the recovered firearms will also be conducted to link them to unsolved crimes, including murder and armed robbery cases recorded in the state over the past six months.
This crackdown is especially significant given the history of the July 7 date, which is revered by some cult groups as a day of homage to their founding ancestors or patrons. In previous years, this period has witnessed fierce clashes resulting in multiple fatalities and the displacement of residents. The police command has therefore emphasized that the arrests are a proactive measure aimed at protecting law-abiding citizens rather than a reactive response to any single incident.
Residents of the affected areas have largely welcomed the operation, expressing relief that the annual tension associated with July 7 may be reduced this year. Community leaders and local vigilante groups have been urged to sustain the momentum by reporting suspicious movements and sheltering of fugitives. The police have also appealed to parents and guardians to counsel their children against joining secret societies, warning that culprits will face the full weight of the law.
Legal experts, however, have noted that prosecuting cult-related offenses in Nigeria often faces challenges such as witness intimidation, insufficient evidence, and judicial delays. Nevertheless, the police have assured the public that they are collaborating with the Ministry of Justice to ensure prompt charging of the suspects. Under the Lagos State Anti-Cultism Law and the Criminal Code, convictions can attract prison terms ranging from seven years to life imprisonment, depending on the severity of the offense.
In conclusion, the arrest of 135 suspected cultists represents a significant step in tackling the menace of cultism in Lagos. The police command has called on all stakeholders, religious leaders, educators, local councils, and youth organizations, to join hands in addressing the root causes of cultism, including poverty, unemployment, and peer pressure. As investigations continue, the coming weeks will determine whether this operation translates into lasting peace or merely a temporary reprieve. For now, Lagos breathes cautiously, hoping that this year’s July 7 will pass without bloodshed.
