POLICE CONFIRM THREE CULT-RELATED DEATHS IN OSUN
The Osun State Police Command has confirmed the deaths of three people following a suspected cult clash in Ilesa, Osun State.
The victims were reportedly shot during a clash between suspected members of the Aiye and Eiye confraternities at about 8:00 p.m. on Monday.
The police confirmed the incident in a statement issued by the command’s spokesperson, Abiodun Ojelabi, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police in charge of election and security, Samuel Erale.
According to the police, the identities of the three victims have not yet been established. Four spent cartridges and two Android mobile phones were also recovered from the scene.
Following the incident, the Commissioner of Police ordered operatives of the Violence Crime Response Unit and other tactical teams to increase patrols, surveillance and intelligence-led operations in Ilesa and neighbouring areas.
The police said the measures were aimed at preventing possible reprisal attacks, particularly around identified flashpoints.
The command warned members of rival cult groups and other criminal elements not to use the incident as an opportunity to cause further violence. It added that anyone involved in cult-related violence or other criminal activities would be arrested and prosecuted according to the law.
Residents of Ilesa were also urged to remain calm, avoid spreading unverified information and report any suspicious movements or activities to the authorities.
