The Ondo State Police Command has intensified security across the state following intelligence reports of planned cult-related activities associated with the annual "7/7" celebration, warning that anyone involved in unlawful gatherings will face arrest and prosecution.
The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, disclosed this in a statement issued on Monday, saying the Commissioner of Police, Felix Ohagwu, had ordered the immediate deployment of security personnel to identified flashpoints and other strategic locations to forestall any breakdown of law and order.
According to the statement, intelligence available to the command suggests that some cult groups may be planning processions, initiations and other activities capable of threatening public peace and endangering residents.
To counter the threat, the commissioner directed the deployment of operatives from the Special Anti-Cultism Squad, Anti-Kidnapping Unit, Violent Crime Response Unit, State Intelligence Department, Mobile Police Force, as well as personnel from various Area Commands and Divisions.
The command said the operatives had been mandated to carry out intensive patrols, surveillance, intelligence-led raids and other visibility policing operations aimed at preventing any cult-related activities across the state.
The police warned that they would not tolerate unlawful gatherings, public display of cult insignia, armed processions or any action capable of creating fear among residents, stressing that offenders would be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
The command also advised parents and guardians to discourage their children and wards from associating with cult groups or participating in any activity linked to the proposed "7/7" celebration.
It further cautioned owners of hotels, lounges, bars, event centres and other recreational facilities against allowing their premises to be used for cult-related meetings, warning that anyone found aiding criminal elements would face prosecution.
Ohagwu also appealed to community leaders, youth groups, transport unions, school authorities and other residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements or gatherings to the nearest police station or other security agencies.
While assuring residents of adequate security, the commissioner urged members of the public to continue their lawful activities without fear, insisting that the command remained prepared to respond swiftly to any attempt to disrupt the peace in Ondo State.
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