How New Lagos State Anti Cultism Law Caught Up With 60 Suspected Cultists
OLUWATOBI EMMANUEL
The Lagos State Police Command has arraigned 60 suspected cultists arrested at various points and communities in the state to the Chief Magistrate Court, Yaba on Wednesday before Chief Magistrate Adeola Adedayo under the new Lagos State Anti Cultism Law, 2021.
The police prosecutors filed thirteen (13) count charge against the sixty suspects for various offences including Conspiracy, Murder, Cultism, Unlawful Possession of Firearms and Breach of Public Peace under the new Lagos State Anti Cultism Law, 2021 and Criminal Laws of the Lagos State, 2015.
The new Lagos State Anti Cultism Law provides that, on conviction, cult members risk jail term of twenty one (21) years, while their parents risk 2 years imprisonment or fine of Five Hundred Thousand Naira (#500,000).
This was announced in a statement endorsed by the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Olumuyiwa Adejobi.
The PPRO stated, “The Commissioner of Police had coordinated some raids and operations around the state, especially, in the Ikorodu Division of Lagos State to go after cultists and hoodlums who have been terrorising the entire state and bring them to book.
“The police boss confirmed that the new law is a blessing and catalyst to eradicate cultism across the length and breadth of the state as the law caters for many loopholes in the previous laws pertaining to cult-related matters in the state.
He further appreciated the government and the good people of Lagos State for making the law a reality that is now applicable in the state.
“CP Hakeem Odumosu, therefore, charged the Divisional Police Officers and commanders of operational units to be on their toes and make sure that the state is rid of cultism and other social vices since the command enjoys the enabling platform and framework to operate and discharge its duties as expected.”
