The Ondo State Police Command has tightened security across the state over intelligence reports of planned cult activities to mark the annual July 7 celebration, warning that anyone found participating in unlawful gatherings will be arrested and prosecuted.
The Command said it had received credible intelligence indicating that some cult groups were planning processions, initiations and other activities capable of disrupting public peace and endangering the lives of residents.
In a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, Abayomi Jimoh, the Commissioner of Police, Felix Ohagwu, in response to the intelligence has ordered the immediate deployment of massive security personnel to identified flashpoints and other strategic locations across the state.
Jmoh said the deployment comprises operatives of the Special Anti-Cultism Squad, Anti-Kidnapping Unit, Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), State Intelligence Department, Mobile Police Force, as well as personnel from various Area Commands and Divisions.
According to the statement, the operatives have been directed to intensify visibility policing, confidence-building patrols, surveillance and intelligence-driven raids to forestall any breach of public peace during the period.
The Command warned that it would not tolerate any unlawful gathering, display of cult insignia, brandishing of weapons, violent procession or any act capable of causing fear and panic among law-abiding residents.
It stated that any individual or group found violating the law would be promptly arrested and prosecuted, urging parents and guardians to caution their children and wards against associating with unlawful groups or participating in activities linked to the July 7 celebration.
The police also advised proprietors of hotels, lounges, bars, event centres and other recreational facilities not to allow their premises to be used for cult-related gatherings, warning that anyone found aiding or harbouring criminal elements would be liable to prosecution.
The statement reads in part, “Parents and guardians are advised to caution their children and wards against associating with unlawful groups or participating in any activity connected with the proposed celebration.
”Proprietors of hotels, lounges, event centres, bars and recreational facilities are equally urged not to permit their premises to be used for any gathering linked to cult-related activities. Anyone found aiding or harbouring criminal elements will be liable to prosecution.”
The Command further appealed to community leaders, youth organisations, transport unions, school authorities and members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements or gatherings to the nearest police station or other security agencies.