Operatives of the Ondo State Police Command have arrested a four-man gang over alleged involvement in kidnapping, armed robbery and ritual-related activities.
The suspects, Ifeoluwa Julius and three members of his gang, all residents of Ogbese town, who had been on the police watch list following intelligence reports linking them to violent crimes within the area.
The spokesman of the command, DSP Olushola Ayanlade, who disclosed this in a statement on Monday, November 17, 2025 said Ifeoluwa openly admitted to being a ritualist.
According to the PPRO, one expended cartridge, fetish items, blood-stained red and white cloth were recovered from Ifeoluwa.
Further intelligence revealed that the suspects had recently returned from a location where they allegedly procured criminal charms intended to fortify themselves for future operations.
Acting on a credible tip-off, operatives of the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) unit carried out a coordinated, intelligence-led operation on the outskirts of Ogbese, resulting in the arrest of the four suspects.
“The Ondo State Police Command has achieved a major operational milestone with the arrest of Ifeoluwa Julius (M) and three members of his gang, all residents of Ogbese town, who have been implicated in a series of kidnapping, armed robbery, and ritual-related offences. This group had long remained on the Command’s watch list due to mounting intelligence linking them to violent criminal activities within the area,” the statement read.
“Further intelligence revealed that the suspects had recently returned from a location where they procured criminal charms intended to fortify themselves for future criminal undertakings.
“Acting promptly on this credible intelligence, operatives of the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) unit launched a coordinated, intelligence-driven operation on the outskirts of Ogbese town.
“This precise and strategic approach led to the successful arrest of the four suspects, demonstrating the Command’s resolve to proactively dismantle emerging criminal threats.
“In the course of the operation, several incriminating items were recovered from Ifeoluwa Julius, including one expended cartridge, fetish items, red and white cloth stained with blood.
“These recoveries aligned with the suspects’ subsequent confessions. During interrogation, Ifeoluwa Julius openly admitted to being a ritualist and confirmed, along with his gang members, their involvement in multiple kidnapping incidents within the Ogbese axis.
“He further disclosed that their recent trip was deliberately undertaken to acquire additional criminal fortifications to enhance their capacity for further nefarious activities
“This successful operation underscores the effectiveness of the ongoing policing reforms and enhanced operational strategies championed by the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, PhD, NPM.
“The Commissioner of Police expresses deep appreciation to the IGP for his unwavering support, strategic leadership, and continuous investment in strengthening security architecture across the nation.
“He equally commends the SWAT operatives for their professionalism, vigilance, and tactical efficiency throughout the operation.
“Reaffirming the Command’s unwavering commitment to public safety, the Commissioner reiterates that Ondo State will never serve as a safe haven for criminals. Individuals or groups involved in criminal activities—regardless of their location, tactics, or attempts at concealment—will be identified, pursued, arrested, and made to face the full weight of the law.
“The suspects will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations. For any inquiries, please contact: 0906 058 8958.”
