The Police Command in Oyo State says it has discovered plots by members of a cult group to cause violence among rival groups in the state.
The command’s Spokesman, SP Adewale Osifeso, made the disclosure in a statement made available to newsmen on Sunday in Ibadan.
According to reports, a cult group, popularly known as Aiye or Black Axe, usually celebrates its Day every July 7 and is usually characterised by violence.
“In its proactive nature, the command has intercepted credible intelligence about concluded plans by hoodlums/cultists to engage in wide-scale violence and retribution, especially among rival gangs in the state,” he said.
Osifeso said that the Commissioner of Police, Ayodele Sonubi, had warned the group to shelve such plans, as the command would vehemently resist any attempt at turning the state into their playground and scuttle the peace of the state.
“The police command, in collaboration with sister security agencies, will clamp down heavily on anyone involved at triggering needless episodes of retributions, bloodletting and destruction of lives and property,” he said.
Osifeso said that Sonubi had assured the people of the state of comprehensive security coverage, ranging from convoy patrols, intelligence-driven stop-and-search and purposeful surveillance of all critical infrastructure, public spaces and places of interest.
“To this end, parents, guardians and persons of influence are advised to caution their wards and protégés to refrain from any unlawful gathering or assembly with intent to breach the peace of the land.
“The state police command will arrest and prosecute violators,” he said.
The spokesman advised hoteliers, proprietors of lounges and other recreational facilities against consenting to the use of their facilities to aid cult-related activities, as owners of such facilities would be liable for prosecution.
He urged residents of the state to remain law-abiding and vigilant, and report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station or formation.
Osifeso also urged them to go about their businesses without any fear of harassment or intimidation from anyone.