By Ayodele Oni
The Ondo State Police Command has arrested a suspected cultist who allegedly shot at football enthusiasts, indiscriminately during a live football match in Ondo community.
No death was recorded during the incident, but it resulted in multiple injuries.
The command revealed that the suspect has been linked to various cult related activities in Ondo town and has been evading Police arrest.
State Police Command spokesman, Ayanlade Olusola, in a statement on Tuesday stated that “the command wishes to inform the general public of the arrest of a suspected cultist believed to be involved in a series of violent cult-related attacks in Ondo town, including the recent brutal assault on innocent civilians at a public viewing centre.
“The suspect, whose identity is being temporarily withheld pending the conclusion of investigations, was apprehended at his hideout, following sustained intelligence gathering and a well-coordinated tactical operation by operatives of the Command.
“Preliminary findings indicate that the suspect played a key role in an earlier attack which led to the killing of members of a rival cult group in Ondo town earlier this year.
“Disturbingly, he has also been linked to the violent incident that occurred at Template Bar and Club, Ondo, on 13th July, 2025 at about 2245hrs, during the live broadcast of the FIFA Club World Cup final match between Chelsea and PSG. During the attack, suspected cultists opened fire indiscriminately on unsuspecting football enthusiasts, resulting in multiple injuries.
“This reckless act not only endangered the lives of peace-loving residents but also posed a direct threat to public peace and safety—the very values the Command remains steadfast in preserving.
“The suspect is currently in custody and cooperating with investigators. Intensive efforts are underway to track, identify, and apprehend other fleeing members of the gang.”
The statement also revealed that between June and July, the Command has arrested a total of 30 male suspected cultists, all of whom have since been charged to court.
“In continuation of its zero-tolerance approach to cultism, the Command recorded significant success during this year’s 7/7 cult anniversary period, a date historically associated with violent clashes among rival groups.
“Due to proactive policing, intelligence-led operations, and the strategic deployment of personnel across identified flashpoints, no cult-related violence was recorded during the period.”
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