Operatives of the Zone 2 Police Command, Onikan, Lagos, have arrested 20 suspected members of the Neo Black Movement (Aye Confraternity) following the killing of a police officer and other violent attacks in Ilesi, near Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State.

The command’s spokesperson, Umma Ayuba, said in a statement that the incident occurred on November 29 around 9:30 p.m. when the armed cultists stormed the community in retaliation for an earlier assault on one of their members. Their movement through the area triggered alarm, drawing the attention of a resident police officer and other locals.

The attackers opened fire upon being spotted, killing the officer instantly and injuring two residents. They also amputated the officer’s left hand and fled with it.

Ayuba said a coordinated intelligence driven operation was launched by the Zonal Dragon Squad, leading to a raid on December 1 at a hideout in the Ogbere area of Ogun State. Twenty suspects were arrested for their alleged roles in the attack and for offences including unlawful possession of firearms.

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Recovered items include a Nissan Micra car (KSH 793 XA), multiple locally made guns, 29 live cartridges, 19 mobile phones, N72,000 cash, jewellery, and ATM cards. One suspect believed to be in possession of the officer’s severed hand remains at large.

Security has since been heightened in the affected communities, and investigations are ongoing.

AIG Adegoke Fayoade urged residents to stay alert and report suspicious activities, assuring that all involved in the crime will be brought to justice.

Source: Punch