Police arrest eight over cult killings in YABATECH, recover weapons

The Lagos State Police Command has apprehended eight suspects believed to be behind a wave of violent cult-related killings in and around the Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH), bringing a major breakthrough to ongoing efforts to curb gang violence in the area.

According to a statement issued on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, the arrests were made during a meticulously planned, intelligence-led operation carried out by tactical operatives of the command on Tuesday, April 29.

“Tactical operatives of the Lagos State Police Command have arrested eight suspects involved in several cult-related killings within Yaba College of Technology and its environs,” Hundeyin stated.

“The operation was driven by actionable intelligence and targeted key individuals believed to be central to recent acts of violence.”

The arrested suspects have been identified as: Adeyemo Abdulsamad (24), also known as “Cloud”; Afeez Enitan (28); Ayomide Daniel (30); Olamilekan Adeagbo (26), also known as “Skinny”; Mayor Samson (28); Basit Ishola (20); Quadri Sikiru (26); Mariam Salihu (23), the only female suspect in the group

During the operation, police recovered a significant cache of weapons and dangerous tools. Items seized include one Beretta pistol, four 9mm rounds of ammunition, one cartridge, two battle axes, and two cutlasses.

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SP Hundeyin confirmed that investigations are ongoing to uncover the full scope of the suspects’ involvement in cultist operations and to determine whether additional arrests are warranted.

“This is only the beginning. The Command is determined to dismantle all cult networks threatening peace in Lagos,” he said.

In a statement commending the successful operation, the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Olohundare Jimoh, lauded the swift and precise work of the tactical teams and the Eko Strike Force.

“The Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, commends the swift response and excellent execution by our tactical units. Their dedication reinforces our resolve to rid Lagos of violent cult activities,” the police statement read.

The CP urged residents to remain alert and proactive in reporting suspicious activities to security agencies. “Public cooperation is vital. We call on all Lagosians to be vigilant and promptly report any criminal or suspicious behavior to the nearest police authority.”

Reaffirming the Command’s commitment to safety, CP Jimoh assured the public that law enforcement will continue to act decisively to protect lives and property across the state.

“The Command remains unwavering in its mission to ensure the safety of every resident and visitor in Lagos,” he concluded.