The Osun State Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Zungura, has ordered tactical teams to intensify raids on suspected criminal hideouts in Osogbo following renewed cult-related violence in the state capital.
The directive followed the shooting of a resident, Rasak Wahab, popularly known as “Ojo Iku,” in the Arowomole area of Osogbo on Sunday.
Security sources said suspected members of a rival cult group were behind the attack. Wahab was reportedly evacuated to a hospital and is currently responding to treatment.
The Police Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Ojelabi, confirmed the incident, saying the victim was receiving medical attention at an undisclosed hospital.
The latest shooting occurred two days after suspected cult clashes in Owo-Eba Community, Osogbo, reportedly claimed the lives of two people identified as Adebayo Taoreed, popularly known as “Small Rugged,” and Oluwaseyi Daniel, also known as “OSHA.”
Several other people were reportedly injured during the clashes.
Following the developments, the police commissioner directed tactical teams to move to the Oke-Baale area of Osogbo, where cult-related activities have reportedly become a security concern.
According to the police, the teams will conduct intelligence-led operations targeting suspected cult members, criminal hideouts and other locations linked to criminal activities.
The command also transferred relevant cases to the State Criminal Investigation Department for discreet investigation.
Area commanders, divisional police officers and tactical commanders were further directed to intensify patrols, gather actionable intelligence and maintain a sustained security presence in identified flashpoints across Osogbo.
The police assured residents that efforts were ongoing to restore normalcy and urged them to continue their lawful activities without fear.
The command warned cult groups, their members, sponsors and sympathisers that anyone involved in cult-related violence, shootings or other criminal activities would face the law.
Residents, parents and community leaders were urged to provide credible information about suspicious movements, cult gatherings and suspected criminal hideouts.
The police also appealed to residents to remain calm and avoid circulating unverified information that could create unnecessary panic.
