In a renewed offensive against cultism and violent crime, the Special Security Squad, codenamed Operation Flush Out Kidnappers and Cultists, has arrested several notorious cult leaders and members in Evboutubu and Iguedaiyi village areas of Benin City.
The security operation, initiated by Governor Monday Okpebholo to restore law and order in Edo State, led to the arrest of a suspected cult leader on the evening of Friday, 18th July 2025, during a coordinated raid on his hideout. A search of his residence yielded weapons and other dangerous items.
The successful operation was aided by intelligence provided by two previously arrested cult suspects, who led the team to multiple hideouts used by members of the cult group. Several weapons and illegal materials were recovered in these locations across Egor Local Government Area.
The elite squad comprises operatives from the Nigerian Army, Police, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), hunters, vigilante groups, repentant cultists, and other critical stakeholders.
A team member, Ameloemen Idemudia Noah, who spoke to journalists after the Friday raid, emphasized that the operation was guided by intelligence, professionalism, and accountability hallmarks of the Governor Okpebholo-led administration.
“We want the public to know that our operation is not politically motivated as some individuals have suggested,” Noah said.
“We are focused, and we will do the job diligently. The public expects results from this government, and we are determined to deliver.”
Noah confirmed that weapons were recovered from the suspected cult leaders and disclosed that community members had played a key role by reporting the activities of the suspects.
“Those we arrested are confirmed cultists. If they’re involved in additional crimes, law enforcement agencies will establish that during investigations,” he added.
He reiterated that while the primary mandate of the squad is to combat cultism and kidnapping, other crimes encountered during operations will be handled accordingly.
“The killings and insecurity in Edo State must stop. Every criminal element must be flushed out to ensure the state is safe for all law-abiding citizens,” Noah concluded.
The latest arrest marks another milestone in the state government’s aggressive push to restore peace, especially in communities long plagued by cult-related violence.
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