Tomiwa Akinwale, a notorious cultist allegedly belonging to the ‘Eiye’ Confraternity and involved allegedly in the killing of an individual and violent crimes in Owo, headquarters of the Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State, has been arrested by police operatives in the state.
The suspect popularly known as ‘Ibaka Bella’, allegedly identified as the leader of the dreaded ‘Eiye’ Confraternity within the Owo axis, particularly Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo (RUGIPO), was accused of being involved in the killing of one Peter Ojo on 12th December, 2025.
Akinwale was apprehended by operatives of the command’s special anti-cultism after he was sighted in Akure, the state capital, at the weekend, following intel received over the criminal activities of the suspect.
While confirming the arrest, the Police Public Relations Officer of the command, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, disclosed that the suspect had for a while been on the wanted list of the police prior to his arrest.
According to the police spokesperson in the state, Akinwale was also involved in the ongoing supremacy battle between rival cult groups within the area and also recently featured on a cult-related social media platform known as ‘Naija Confra’ for allegedly participating in an attack on suspected members of the Aiye Confraternity, along Fasawe Street in Owo.
He said, “During the arrest, a search conducted on the suspect led to the recovery of several items suspected to be criminal charms believed to be used for protection and intimidation during cult activities.
“The suspect has been charged in court on a six-count charge bordering murder and other offences. Meanwhile, efforts are also underway to identify, track, and apprehend other members of the syndicate linked to him.
“The command reiterates its firm stance against cultism and other violent crimes and assures residents that it will continue to intensify intelligence-driven operations to dismantle criminal networks threatening the peace and security of communities across the state.
“Members of the public are urged to remain vigilant and continue to support the police by providing timely, credible and actionable information that will assist in the fight against cultism and other forms of criminality.
“The Ondo State Police Command remains committed to ensuring the safety of lives and property and will not relent in bringing perpetrators of crime to justice.”
Police arrest wanted Ondo cult kingpin ‘Bella’ over killing, violent crimes
