By IFEOLUWALOJU AJIRENIKE

The Police Command in Ekiti has arrested six suspects in separate operations involving alleged cultism and ritual-related activities in the state.

The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Abutu Sunday, disclosed this in a statement on Saturday in Ado-Ekiti.

Sunday said a locally made firearm, an axe, an expended cartridge shell and suspected criminal charms were recovered from the suspects.

He said operatives of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) arrested three of the suspects on Tuesday following credible information that a gang of about 50 hoodlums had invaded Ijadu community.

According to him, the hoodlums, allegedly led by one Ojo Ijadu, were armed with guns, axes and cutlasses and intended to attack residents of the community.

He said the hoodlums engaged the police operatives in a gun duel after sighting them, leading to the arrest of three suspects, while other members of the gang fled.

The PPRO identified the arrested suspects as Emeka Uba, 35; Fatai Adio, 30; and Aanu Omotosho, 28.

Sunday said preliminary investigation revealed that the suspects allegedly received mobilisation from a man popularly known as Ojo Onile/Ogbongbon, who was still at large.

He said efforts were ongoing to apprehend him and other fleeing members of the gang.

In a separate operation, Sunday said operatives of the Iworoko Police Division, in collaboration with the Ekiti State University (EKSU) Security Outfit, arrested three students over an alleged ritual-related video call and threats.

He said the matter was reported on Monday by a 20-year-old student, who alleged that he received a video call during which three individuals were seen with traditional ritual objects and allegedly making incantations.

The complainant also alleged that he received threatening messages and a voice note containing references to a purported sacrifice.

Sunday said the police immediately commenced investigation following the report and arrested three suspects.

He identified them as Adebayo Gabriel, 20; Omojola Nelson, 19; and Busari Ayomide, 20.

He said the scene was visited and relevant exhibits recovered, adding that the suspects reportedly admitted their involvement but claimed that the act was intended as a prank.

The Commissioner of Police, Mr Falade Michael, commended the operatives for their prompt response, vigilance and professionalism.

Michael urged residents, students and members of the academic community to remain vigilant and report suspicious persons, movements and activities to the police or other security agencies.

He said investigation into the cases was ongoing, adding that the suspects would be charged to court upon conclusion of the investigation in accordance with extant laws. (NAN)