Operatives of the Lagos State Police Command have arrested a suspected armed robber and notorious cultist in the Ebute Metta area of the state.

The operatives recovered a locally made pistol, ammunition and charms from the suspect.

The suspect, identified as Odeshola Afeez, 22, was apprehended following a response by police operatives to a distress call from concerned residents who reported that a young man was harassing passers-by and causing panic within the community.

According to the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abimbola Adebisi, officers immediately mobilised to the area upon receiving the report and successfully arrested the suspect.

Adebisi said a search conducted on the suspect led to the recovery of a locally made pistol, one live cartridge and suspected charms concealed in his possession.

Upon receiving information that a young man was harassing the public and causing apprehension within the community, operatives were promptly deployed to the scene.

The suspect was arrested, and a thorough search led to the recovery of a locally made pistol, one cartridge and local charms concealed on him,” Adebisi said.

Preliminary investigations, according to her, revealed that the suspect is allegedly a notorious cultist who had been involved in activities capable of disturbing public peace and security within the area.

“Initial findings indicate that the suspect is a known cultist who had allegedly been terrorising residents and engaging in criminal activities within the community.

Further investigations also suggest that he had been evading arrest prior to his apprehension,” Adebisi stated.

She added that the suspect remains in police custody and will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Tijani Fatai, commended the operatives for their prompt response, professionalism and commitment to public safety.

The Commissioner of Police praised the officers involved in the operation for their vigilance and professionalism.

He said the Command remains unwavering in its commitment to combating cultism, armed robbery and other violent crimes across Lagos State.

Fatai urged residents to continue supporting security agencies by providing timely and credible information that could aid crime prevention and detection.

He encouraged the public to remain vigilant and continue to partner with the police through the provision of useful information. Community support remains vital to our efforts to rid the state of criminal elements and enhance public safety.

The Police Boss reiterated his resolve to sustain ongoing operations aimed at tackling cult-related activities, violent crimes and other threats to public peace across the state.