The Ekiti State Police Command has arrested four individuals suspected of involvement in kidnapping, armed robbery, and cult-related activities.
According to a statement released on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, by the command’s spokesperson, SP Sunday Abutu, the suspects were apprehended by Safer Highway operatives during a routine stop-and-search along the Awo-Ekiti/Igede-Ekiti road over the weekend.
Three of the suspects—Sunday Idoko, Gabriel Sunday, and Olayiwola Olajide—were intercepted while traveling in a commercial vehicle from Ondo State, allegedly en route to Kwara State for a suspected criminal operation. Abutu noted that they initially attempted to evade arrest by speeding toward the checkpoint but were subdued through tactical intervention.
Recovered items from the trio included:
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One locally-made pistol wrapped in a towel
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Two live cartridges
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Three mobile phones
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A power bank
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Suspected charms
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₦155,000 in cash
Preliminary investigations revealed the suspects are members of a cult group allegedly planning an operation in Kwara State.
In a separate incident, another suspect, Abubakar Sadiu, was arrested during a stop-and-search. He was reportedly unable to clearly state his destination and attempted to bribe officers with ₦50,000, which was rejected. He is also suspected of being involved in kidnapping.
Recovered from Sadiu were:
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₦397,000 in cash
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10kg of red oil
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Two smartphones
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One headlamp
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A lighter
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An empty bag
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A black face cap
The suspects are currently under investigation.
Commissioner of Police, Joseph Eribo, has called on residents to cooperate with law enforcement, particularly during routine checks, to aid efforts in combating crime across the state.