Operatives of the Ondo State Special Anti-Cultism Squad in Akure, acting on credible intelligence has arrested a suspected cult leader, Akinwale Tomiwa, popularly known as Bella.
The suspect is alleged to be the leader of the notorious Eiye Confraternity operating within the Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo and its environs.
DSP Abayomi Jimoh, Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) in a statement on Tuesday said the arrest was part of the command’s ongoing efforts to combat cult-related violence across the state
He said the arrest followed actionable intelligence received by the Squad indicating that the suspect was sighted around NEPA Junction in Akure.
“Acting swiftly on the information, operatives mobilized to the location and successfully apprehended the suspect without incident.
“Preliminary investigation has linked the suspect to the killing of one Ojo Peter, which occurred on 12th December, 2025 in Owo.
“The incident had earlier raised concerns within the community and was suspected to be connected to cult-related rivalry.
“Further intelligence also revealed that the suspect was recently featured on a cult-related social media platform known as Naija Confra for allegedly participating in an attack on suspected members of the Aiye Confraternity, along Fasawe Street in Owo.
The attack was reportedly part of an ongoing supremacy battle between rival cult groups within the area.
During the arrest, a search conducted on the suspect led to the recovery of several items suspected to be criminal charms believed to be used for protection and intimidation during cult activities.
The suspect has been charged to court on a six-count charge bordering murder & other offenses. Meanwhile, efforts are also underway to identify, track, and apprehend other members of the syndicate linked to him.
The Command reiterates its firm stance against cultism and other violent crimes and assures residents that it will continue to intensify intelligence-driven operations to dismantle criminal networks threatening the peace and security of communities across the state.
Members of the public are urged to remain vigilant and continue to support the Police by providing timely, credible and actionable information that will assist in the fight against cultism and other forms of criminality.
The Ondo State Police Command remains committed to ensuring the safety of lives and property and will not relent in bringing perpetrators of crime to justice.
