Police Arrest Suspect Linked to Ondo Cult Killings and Viewing Centre Attack
Police in Ondo State have arrested a suspect believed to be connected to a deadly cult clash and a violent attack on a public viewing centre in Ondo town.
According to a statement released Tuesday by the Police Command spokesperson, SP Olayinka Olushola, the arrest followed weeks of intelligence gathering and a tactical operation that led to the suspect’s capture at his hideout.
The unnamed suspect is allegedly involved in several cult-related attacks, including a recent assault at a football viewing centre where gunmen opened fire indiscriminately, injuring several innocent spectators. Police also suspect him of playing a central role in an earlier cult-related killing in Ondo town this year.
Authorities also linked the suspect to a July 13 incident at Template Bar and Club, where cultists reportedly fired shots at unsuspecting civilians.
During the arrest, police recovered weapons including a Beretta pistol with five rounds of ammunition, a locally made pistol, multiple sharp weapons, cult insignias, charms, and suspected illicit drugs.
In an ongoing crackdown, the police revealed that 30 suspected cultists were arrested between June and July 2025, all of whom have been charged to court. The Command said proactive operations helped prevent violence during the annual 7/7 cult celebration period, a time usually marked by rival clashes.
Efforts are ongoing to apprehend other fleeing gang members, the statement concluded.
