BREAKING: Ondo police warn against 'July 7' cult celebrations, deploy security across flashpoints

Crime Diary

AKURE, Nigeria (NPA) — The Ondo State Police Command has warned cult groups and other criminal elements against organising or participating in any unlawful gathering, procession or initiation linked to the planned “July 7” cult celebrations across the state.

In a statement issued on Monday, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, said intelligence available to the command indicated that some cult groups were planning activities capable of threatening public peace, endangering lives and disrupting lawful activities.

The statement said the Commissioner of Police, CP Felix Ohagwu, had ordered the immediate deployment of security personnel to identified flashpoints and other strategic locations across the state.

According to the command, the operation involves personnel from the Special Anti-Cultism Squad, Anti-Kidnapping Unit, Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), State Intelligence Department, Mobile Police Force, as well as officers from various Area Commands and Divisions.

The officers have been directed to carry out intensive visibility policing, confidence-building patrols, surveillance and intelligence-led operations to prevent any breakdown of law and order.

The command warned that it would not tolerate unlawful gatherings, public displays of cult insignia, brandishing of weapons, violent processions or any activity capable of causing fear among residents.

It stated that anyone found violating the law would be arrested and prosecuted.

The police also advised parents and guardians to caution their children and wards against participating in cult-related activities, while urging owners of hotels, lounges, event centres, bars and other recreational facilities not to allow their premises to be used for such gatherings.

The command warned that anyone found aiding or harbouring criminal elements would be prosecuted in accordance with the law.

The Commissioner of Police also appealed to community leaders, youth organisations, transport unions, school authorities and members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements or gatherings to the nearest police station or other security agencies.

While reassuring residents that adequate security measures had been put in place, the command urged the public to go about their lawful activities without fear, assuring that it remained prepared to respond swiftly to any attempt to breach the peace in the state.