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By Abubakar Umar
The Kwara State Police Command, in collaboration with operatives of the National Forest Guard, has arrested thirteen suspected cultists, thugs and drug dealers during a coordinated raid at Tanke Junction in the Ilorin metropolis.
The operation was reportedly carried out following credible intelligence on the activities of hoodlums allegedly disguising as commercial motorcyclists within the area.
In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, the suspects were alleged to be involved in cult-related activities, street violence, illicit drug trafficking and other criminal acts capable of threatening public peace and security.
The statement described Tanke Junction as a location that had, over time, gained notoriety as a criminal hotspot within Ilorin.
Items recovered during the operation included twenty-four motorcycles, five of which were said to be unregistered.
Security operatives also recovered substances suspected to be cannabis sativa, crystal methamphetamine, popularly known as “ice”, Colorado, tramadol and other hard drugs.
Preliminary investigations, according to the command, revealed that the suspects allegedly used the area as a base for drug peddling, recruitment of youths into unlawful groups, intimidation of residents and planning of criminal activities within Ilorin and neighbouring communities.
The Police Command stated that efforts were ongoing to apprehend fleeing accomplices and dismantle the criminal network linked to the suspects.
The statement added that the suspects currently in custody would be charged to court after the conclusion of investigations.
