Shakiru Alao during handing over to the Nigeria police Dopemu September 10th, 2025 Dopemu, Egbeda, Lagos Residents of Dopemu community in Lagos State were thrown into shock and relief on Thursday after a notorious individual allegedly responsible for multiple sexual assaults and violent acts was apprehended in the act by local vigilantes.
The suspect, Shakiru Alao,, was reportedly caught attempting to rape a young woman in an abandoned building near the Egbeda axis around 11:30 p.m. According to eyewitnesses, the suspect was subdued and held by community vigilante members before being handed over to officers from the Nigerian Police Force, Owutu Division.
Sources close to the investigation revealed that the man is believed to be a ranking member of the dreaded Aye Confraternity, a cult group widely associated with criminal intimidation, extortion, and gang-related violence in various parts of Lagos and beyond
Community members say the suspect has long been feared in the area, often seen in the company of other cult members, intimidating residents and allegedly engaging in illegal activities including robbery, drug distribution, and sexual violence.
“We have been living in fear for too long,” said Mrs. Adejoke Olamide, a resident of Egbeda “No one could speak out against him because he was protected by his cult group. Finally, justice is near.”
Police spokesperson, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed the arrest and said he was arrested before 2019 and 2023 due to lack of evidence the police could not confirm the allegations, and commended the local security network for their bravery and swift action. He stated that investigations are ongoing and the suspect would face charges including rape, assault, and cult-related offenses.
“We have strong evidence and multiple witness statements. This arrest may open the door to uncovering a broader network of cultist activities in the area,” SP Hundeyin added.
‘Police and members of the community celebrating during his arrest.”
Meanwhile, human rights groups and women’s organizations have hailed the arrest, urging the authorities to ensure a thorough and transparent prosecution.
The arrest comes amid renewed calls for government crackdown on cultism and gender-based violence across Lagos State, particularly in suburban areas where security presence is often thin.
The Lagos State Commissioner for Justice has assured the public that the case will not be swept under the rug and has vowed to see it through to prosecution.
