The Lagos State Police Command has arrested a 44-year-old suspected cultist kingpin and hired assassin who allegedly terrorised residents of the Mushin area for years.

The Command’s spokesperson, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed the arrest in a statement on Friday. According to him, the suspect was apprehended at his hideout in Agbado, Ogun State, after several failed attempts by the Police Tactical Squad.

“Today, operatives of the Tactical Squad, during a special operation codenamed Silence, Speed and Surprise, successfully tracked and arrested the notorious suspect,” Hundeyin stated.

He described the suspect as one of the most wanted criminals in Lagos in recent history, noting that his arrest marked a major breakthrough in efforts to curb violent crime in the state.

The suspect is alleged to have masterminded numerous violent crimes — including armed robbery, murder, kidnapping, and cult-related killings — in Mushin and neighbouring areas between 2009 and 2024. His reign of terror left many families traumatised and deeply scarred.

Despite evading arrest by frequently relocating across states, the police remained relentless in their pursuit. A subsequent raid on his Mushin residence uncovered a cache of weapons and incriminating materials.

Recovered items included two AK-47 rifles, a K2 rifle, a Red Ryder rifle, three pump-action shotguns, two locally fabricated pistols, five magazines, 57 live cartridges, 70 rounds of 5.56mm ammunition, 27 rounds of 9mm ammunition, one expended shell, a dagger, three walkie-talkies, and nine international passports belonging to different individuals.

The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Owohunwa Jimoh, has directed the Deputy Commissioner of Police, State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), to broaden the investigation and apprehend the suspect’s accomplices. Four families have already identified him as responsible for the killings of their loved ones.

Jimoh assured Lagos residents of their safety, commending the officers involved for their courage and professionalism. He also urged citizens to remain vigilant and provide credible information to support ongoing police operations.

“The suspect remains in custody under tight security and will face full prosecution. The Command remains committed to making Lagos unsafe for criminals while protecting law-abiding citizens,” the Commissioner said.