Operatives of the Edo State Police Command have disrupted a suspected cultists’ gathering in Ohonre Community, off Adolor College Road, Benin City, leading to the arrest of two suspects and the recovery of a firearm.
The operation was carried out on May 21, 2026, at about 7:00 p.m., following a distress report on the movement and gathering of suspected cult members within the community.
Police operatives attached to the Ugbowo Division, who were on surveillance patrol, swiftly mobilized to the area. On sighting the operatives, the suspects reportedly fled in an attempt to evade arrest, but were chased and apprehended by the police team.
The suspects were identified as Victor Peter, 21, and Iyemoma Ogbewe, 35.
According to the police, a search conducted on the suspects led to the recovery of one cut-to-size gun allegedly intended for unlawful activities.
Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspects confessed to being members of the notorious Maphite cult group, while efforts are ongoing to arrest other fleeing members of the gang.
The Commissioner of Police in Edo State, CP Monday Agbonika, commended the swift response of the operatives and reaffirmed the Command’s determination to rid the state of criminal elements.
He also urged residents to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies, assuring that all reports would receive prompt attention.