Police in Osun have arrested 24 suspects linked to political thuggery and cult-related activities in the state.
The Commissioner of Police in the state, Ibrahim Gotan, disclosed this while parading the suspects at the Police Headquarters on Monday in Osogbo.
Gotan said the arrests were made possible through sustained efforts to combat cultism, political thuggery and other violent crimes across the state.
He noted that the command was fully aware of recent cult-related killings and acts of thuggery threatening public peace, adding that some of the incidents were politically motivated.
According to him, intensified operations have led to the arrest of several suspects linked to the crimes, while the command remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of residents.
“I want to reiterate the command’s commitment to rid the state of criminal elements and ensure a peaceful atmosphere before, during and after the forthcoming election.
“I also use this opportunity to warn all criminally minded individuals, including cultists, political thugs and other troublemakers, to desist from acts capable of disrupting public peace and order or face the full wrath of the law.
“I further assure law-abiding residents that the command, under my watch, will continue to prioritise their safety, while seeking greater support and cooperation,” he said.
The police chief added that the command would remain professional, neutral and non-partisan in the discharge of its constitutional responsibilities, and would continue to uphold the rule of law without fear or favour.