By Victor Akinkuolie, Ondo

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The Ondo State Police command has arrested three individuals over the weekend, believed to be prominent members of the ‘Eiye’ and ‘Ayee’ cults, who have been causing unrest in Ondo town and surrounding areas.

According to Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Victor Olowolagba, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) for Yaba Division, the suspects are currently in custody at the division after being apprehended in different parts of the community during a routine operation conducted by the Anti-Cultism Unit of the Ondo State Police Command.

CSP Olowolagba reported that two of the suspects were detained in the Ayeyemi area following a recent violent clash between the ‘Eiye’ and ‘Aye’ cult factions. These two individuals have already been brought before the court but remain in police custody while investigations continue.

The police indicated that this violent confrontation resulted in the deaths of two individuals and the destruction of property valued at thousands of naira.

There was a recent outbreak of violence between the rival groups in the community, during which several suspected members suffered severe machete injuries and are currently being treated at an undisclosed hospital in the area.

A police source revealed that two of the suspects were apprehended following a tip-off. Officers acted quickly to detain them and obtained confessions confirming their affiliations with the Eiye and Ayee cults.

Another suspect was arrested at a police checkpoint while in transit. Upon searching him, officers discovered a battle axe in his possession. He subsequently admitted to being a member of the Eiye confraternity.

Further investigations have indicated that the arrested individuals have a history of involvement in various crimes, including burglary and illegal possession of firearms.

The police have confirmed that investigations are ongoing, and additional suspects will be brought to court once the inquiry is complete.