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The Kwara State High Court, presided over by Honourable Justice A. O. Akinpelu, has sentenced KALE BAYERO and five others to ten (10) years imprisonment for the offence of cultism.
The defendants were arraigned on charges of Criminal Conspiracy, Armed Robbery, Cultism, Attempted Culpable Homicide, and Disturbance of Public Peace.
The prosecution, led by Issa Zakari, Chief State Counsel, Ministry of Justice, tendered credible evidence including assorted mobile phones, a Honda Accord vehicle, and other exhibits to prove the case beyond reasonable doubt.
Key prosecution witnesses who testified included Alhaji Kawata Arikewuyo, Chairman of Community Policing, Eruda Area; CSP Adebayo Sikiru; Sergeant Tunde Opeyemi; and Aigbogun Benedicta, all of whom served as Investigating Police Officers.
Despite the defendants’ denial of the allegations, the Court found them guilty of the offences of Cultism, Mischief, Disturbance of Public Peace, and Conspiracy to commit the said offences.
Consequently, the Court sentenced each convict to: Ten (10) years imprisonment for the offence of Cultism; Two (2) years and six (6) months imprisonment each for the offences of Mischief, Disturbance of Public Peace, and Conspiracy.
The judgment represents a significant milestone in the pursuit of justice for the victims and the communities of Eruda, Baboko, and Alapata. The decision further underscores the gravity of cult-related crimes and serves as a strong deterrent to others.
The Kwara State Government, through the Ministry of Justice, reaffirms its unwavering commitment to upholding the rule of law, ensuring public safety, and securing justice for all citizens.
