The Commissioner of Police in Lagos State, CP Olohundare Jimoh, has ordered an internal investigation into the controversial release of six suspected members of the notorious Aiye cult group, who were earlier arrested for deadly attacks in the Okokomaiko axis of Ojo Local Government Area.
The decision followed complaints by residents of Agric community in Ojo, who expressed fear over what they described as “police compromise” in the prosecution of the suspects, allegedly arrested with weapons and charms during a series of cult-related killings and robberies three years ago.
A respected community leader, who requested anonymity for safety reasons, recounted how the Tactical Team initially acted on credible intelligence and arrested the six suspects while others escaped.
But he said the team’s conduct later became suspicious.
“They changed suddenly. They stopped updating us on the case. They charged the suspects to court secretly, and we had to hire a lawyer to follow up,” the source said.
According to him, the police shockingly withdrew an original 8-count charge and replaced it with a lesser 2-count charge, prompting the magistrate to grant the suspects bail.
“Now these boys are going from one house to another to beg landlords to withdraw the case. We’re all afraid they may attack us again,” he added.
In response, the Lagos State Police Command has transferred the Tactical Commander involved to allow for what it called a “thorough and unhindered investigation”.
A committee of senior officers has been set up and tasked with submitting a detailed report within a week.
In a statement, the state police spokesperson, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, condemned any form of misconduct or compromise within the force.
He said, “The Lagos State Police Command does not support any form of corruption, complicity or compromise of investigation and prosecution procedures by any of its officers.
“If the officer involved is found wanting in any way, appropriate disciplinary measures will be promptly applied to serve as effective deterrent to others.”
Residents have now called on the Inspector-General of Police and the Lagos State Government to intervene and ensure justice is served without delay, warning that failure to act may embolden more cult groups across the state.
