The arrest was made following a tip-off from residents of the Egbatedo area who noticed the gathering of cult members from various parts of the state for the annual event on Friday.
According to a security source who spoke to reporters on Saturday, the suspects fled upon sighting the police, abandoning the cow in the process. The cow, which was inscribed with the words "Oroki" and marked with a symbol of an axe, was later seized by the police team.
SP Yemisi Opalola, the spokesperson of the Osun State Police Command, confirmed the incident, stating, "After intelligence revealed plans by a particular cult to celebrate the 7/7 festival, the CP ordered operatives to ensure that the plan by these cultists fail."
In line with the directive, the police operatives conducted a thorough search throughout the state and proceeded to the Egbatedo suburb of Osogbo. Upon the suspects' sight of the police, they fled, but the cow intended for the celebration was successfully seized.
"We want to assure the people of the state that the command will continue to work hard to keep the state very safe," SP Opalola assured.
The arrest of the cow and the thwarting of the cultists' celebration plan serve as a testament to the dedication and effectiveness of the anti-cultism unit of the Osun State Police Command. By acting swiftly and apprehending the cow, the police have prevented a potential gathering of cult members and the associated security risks that such an event could pose.
The Osun State Police Command remains committed to maintaining law and order, as well as ensuring the safety and security of the residents. The proactive approach taken in this case sends a strong message to cultists and other criminal elements that their activities will not be tolerated, and the police will continue to be vigilant in combating crime.
Residents of Osun State can take comfort in knowing that the police are actively working to protect their communities and will continue to employ intelligence-driven operations to maintain peace and security.
The successful seizure of the cow is a clear demonstration of the police's commitment to upholding the rule of law and safeguarding the welfare of the citizens.
As investigations into the attempted cultists' celebration continue, the Osun State Police Command encourages residents to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious activities to the authorities. By working together, the police and the community can ensure a safe and peaceful environment for all.