The Osun State Police Command has deployed tactical teams to the Oke-Baale area of Osogbo following a resurgence of suspected cult-related violence that has left two persons dead and another injured in separate incidents. The police said the latest incidents occurred in the Owo-Eba and Arowomole areas of the state capital, prompting the Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Zungura, to direct tactical operatives to remain in the affected areas until normalcy is fully restored.
In a statement issued on Sunday, October 4, 2026, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, said two persons were shot dead during a suspected cult clash around Owo-Eba on October 2. The deceased were identified as Adebayo Taoreed, popularly known as “Small Rugged,” and Oluwaseyi Daniel, also known as “OSHA.” The police added that some other persons sustained gunshot injuries during the incident.
The Command reported another violent incident on October 4, when suspected cultists allegedly invaded the Arowomole area and shot a man identified as Rasak Wahab, popularly known as “Ojo Iku.” According to the police, Wahab was immediately evacuated to a hospital and was responding to treatment as of the time of the statement. Describing the incidents as disturbing, the police commissioner directed tactical teams to relocate to Oke-Baale and intensify operations aimed at identifying and apprehending those responsible for the violence.
“The tactical teams have been charged to conduct intelligence-led raids and operations professionally and within the ambit of the law, targeting identified cult members, criminal hideouts and other locations linked to the activities of criminal elements,” the statement said. The police disclosed that the cases had been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for discreet investigation, while Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers and tactical commanders had been instructed to strengthen patrols and gather actionable intelligence across identified flashpoints.
The Command warned suspected cult groups, their members, sponsors and sympathisers against engaging in violence, shootings and other criminal activities, stressing that anyone found culpable would be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law. “The Command wishes to reassure residents of Osogbo and the entire Osun State that the Police are fully in control of the security situation.
Osogbo remains safe, and residents should go about their lawful activities without fear,” the statement added. The police also urged parents, community leaders and residents to provide credible information about suspicious movements, cult gatherings and criminal hideouts, while advising the public against spreading unverified reports capable of causing panic. The Command reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property and maintaining peace across Osun State.
