Three Reportedly Killed in Ilesa as Police Deploy Tactical Operatives

Three persons have reportedly been killed in a suspected cult clash involving members of the Aiye and Eiye confraternities in Ilesa, Osun State.

The incident occurred at about 8:00 p.m. on Monday in the Imo area of Ilesa, according to the Osun State Police Command.

The police said the victims, identified as Idowu, Yinka and Eja, were reportedly shot dead during the clash, adding that their identities had yet to be properly established.

In a statement issued on Monday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, the Command said it immediately deployed operatives of the Violence Crime Response Unit (VCRU) to the area following receipt of the report.

The deployment was ordered by the Commissioner of Police in charge of the 2026 Osun State Governorship Election, CP Samuel Erale Etaifo, to prevent further escalation, apprehend those responsible and restore calm to the area.

The police said four expended cartridges and two Android mobile phones were recovered from the scene, while preliminary investigations into the incident had commenced.

According to the Command, investigators are working to establish the circumstances surrounding the clash and identify all those connected with the incident.

The police further disclosed that the CP had directed the VCRU and other tactical teams to intensify patrols, surveillance and intelligence-led operations across Ilesa and adjoining communities, particularly around identified flashpoints.

The measure, the Command said, was aimed at preventing possible reprisal attacks and maintaining peace in the area.

The police warned suspected members of rival cult groups and other criminal elements against exploiting the incident to unleash further violence.

It said anyone found engaging in cult-related violence, reprisal attacks, unlawful possession of firearms or other criminal activities would be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.

The Command also appealed to residents of Ilesa to remain calm and law-abiding, urging them to desist from spreading unverified information and promptly report suspicious movements or activities to the police.

The police said investigation into the incident was ongoing and promised to communicate further developments to members of the public.