Lagos CP Orders Probe into Alleged Police Complicity in Release of Suspected Cultists

The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, has ordered a full-scale investigation into the alleged misconduct of a tactical police team operating in the Okokomaiko area following the release of six suspected members of the notorious Aiye cult group.

The development has sparked fear and anxiety among residents of the Agric community in the Ojo area of the state, who expressed concern over potential reprisals from the released suspects.

A community leader, who spoke on condition of anonymity, accused the tactical team of compromising the safety of the residents.

“The Tactical Team has a lot of explanations to make. They have now put the lives of community leaders at risk. These cult boys are being advised to beg us, but we are afraid they might eventually attack us,” the source alleged.

The leader recalled that the community had experienced a wave of armed robberies and cult-related killings about three years ago, prompting a report to the Tactical Team. This led to a swift operation during which six cult suspects were arrested, while others fled. Firearms and charms were reportedly recovered during the raid.

However, the source expressed dissatisfaction with the subsequent handling of the case by the police.

“The police suddenly became distant. They kept information about the suspects from us. They even charged the suspects to court without our knowledge, forcing us to engage a lawyer to follow up on the proceedings,” the community leader said.

He further alleged that the charges against the suspects were downgraded, resulting in their release on bail.

“The magistrate granted them bail after the police withdrew the initial charge and replaced it with a milder one. Now, these boys are going from house to house, pleading with landlords to discontinue the case,” he added.

Reacting to the development, the Lagos State Police Command said a committee comprising senior officers has been set up to conduct a thorough investigation and submit its report within one week. Meanwhile, the tactical commander involved has been redeployed to ensure an unhindered probe.

Spokesperson for the Command, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, said:
“The Lagos State Police Command does not tolerate any form of corruption, complicity or compromise in investigation and prosecution processes by its officers. If any officer is found culpable, appropriate disciplinary measures will be swiftly applied to serve as a deterrent to others.”