Police parade 24 suspects linked with political violence in Osun

Osun State Police Command on Monday paraded 24 suspected cultists and political thugs as part of intensified operations aimed at tackling violent crimes and maintaining peace across the state ahead of August 15 gubernatorial election in the state.

Parading the suspects at the police headquarters in Osogbo, Osun State capital, the Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Gotan, said the Command remained resolute in its efforts to combat cultism, political violence and other criminal activities threatening public safety.

The Police Commissioner further appreciated members of the media and other stakeholders for their continued support and collaboration in the fight against crime, saying that the partnership had contributed significantly to the Command’s operational successes.

According to him, the briefing became necessary to keep residents informed about the Command’s sustained efforts to restore peace and security, particularly in response to recent cult-related killings and acts of thuggery recorded in parts of the state.

CP Gotan acknowledged that some of the incidents had attracted political interpretations but assured residents that the police would remain professional, neutral and guided solely by the rule of law in carrying out their constitutional responsibilities.

He disclosed that 24 suspects allegedly linked to cult-related violence and other criminal activities had been arrested during ongoing operations across the state, adding that investigations were continuing with a view to prosecuting anyone found culpable.

The suspects arrested according to the Commissioner of Police are: Kareem Saheed A.K.A. ‘Tanfiani’, Oyeladun Muideen A.K.A Akilapa (46), Ridwan Adekola (39), Mukaila Azeez A.k.a. “Mikki” (33), Sunday Friday A.K.A. “Akube (26), Olamilekan Fatai ( 27), Tiamiyu Ismail (26), Famuyiwa Adekunle Toib (30) Ajiboye Toheed (28).

Others are: Morufu Sodiq (24) Folorunsho Moshood (31), Hassan Sodiq (32) Badiru Saheed (26), Adegoke Olalekan (27), Faruk Olawale (25), Iyanuoluwa Sarumi (30) Afolabi Ahmed (30), Adeshina Lukman (39), Mutiu Opeyemi (32), Olushola Daniel (32), Abiola Olabode (39), Azeez Abiodun ( 32) Babatunde Kehinde (23) and Dada Mayowa (31)

The commissioner reiterated the determination of the Command to rid Osun State of criminal elements and ensure a peaceful atmosphere before, during and after the forthcoming elections.

He warned cultists, political thugs and other criminally minded individuals to desist from activities capable of disrupting public peace and order or be prepared to face the full weight of the law.

CP Gotan further assured law-abiding residents that the Command would continue to prioritise the protection of lives and property while seeking greater cooperation from members of the public through timely and credible information capable of assisting security operations.

He reaffirmed the commitment of the Osun State Police Command to professionalism, neutrality and fairness in the discharge of its duties, assuring residents that the police would continue to uphold the rule of law without fear or favour.