Ondo Police Nab Eiye Cult Kingpin ‘Bella’ Over Murder

AKURE—Operatives from the Ondo State Police Command’s Special Anti-Cultism Squad have arrested Akinwale Tomiwa, popularly known as “Bella,” a suspected leader of the notorious Eiye Confraternity. The breakthrough came under Commissioner of Police Adebowale Lawal, targeting cult violence around Rufus Giwa Polytechnic (RUGIPO) in Owo and nearby areas.

Acting on credible tips, the squad tracked Bella to NEPA Junction in Akure, where they nabbed him without resistance on March 15, 2026. A search yielded several items believed to be criminal charms used for protection and intimidation in cult operations. This haul underscores the police’s aggressive push against supernatural aids in violent crimes.

Preliminary probes tie Bella directly to the December 12, 2025, murder of Ojo Peter in Owo, a case that rattled locals amid fears of escalating cult rivalries. The killing, reportedly by hacking, stemmed from turf wars between Eiye and rival Aiye Confraternity members. Further digs revealed Bella’s spotlight on Naija Confra, a shadowy social media hub for cult boasts, where he was fingered in a Fasawe Street assault on Aiye suspects.

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These incidents highlight a persistent supremacy battle plaguing Owo, with RUGIPO as a hotspot for recruitment and clashes. Police statements confirm Bella topped their watchlist for multiple violent acts, including other unsolved murders under surveillance.

Court Arraignment and Wider Crackdown

Bella now faces a six-count charge sheet covering murder and related offenses, already docked in court as of March 15. The Command vows to hunt down his syndicate cohorts, vowing intelligence-led sweeps to uproot networks fueling Ondo’s unrest.

CP Lawal’s outfit reaffirms zero tolerance for cultism, urging residents to feed them tips via hotlines like 0906 058 8958 or @OndoPoliceNg on X. This arrest signals renewed momentum in safeguarding communities from frat-fueled mayhem.