The Edo State Special Security Squad, codenamed “Operation Flush Out Cultists and Kidnappers,” has arrested 12 suspected cultists and sealed two apartments allegedly used for cult initiation activities during coordinated raids across several parts of Benin City.
The operation followed the killing of a young man in front of the University of Benin (UNIBEN) gate on Sunday, May 10, 2026.
The Chief Security Officer (CSO) and Principal Security Officer (PSO) to Governor Monday Okpebholo led the operation, which covered Ekosodin, Isihor, Old Road off S&T Barracks, Airport Road, 19th Street Ugbowo, Ogba-Evbuodia and Evbuomore Quarters.
Spokesperson for the squad, Noah Idemudia, alleged that some Okaigheles in communities across Edo State were aiding violent crimes by harbouring criminals and allowing illegal weapons within their domains.
He warned that any community leader or Okaighele found with unlicensed weapons would be treated as a criminal.
According to him, intelligence reports indicated that sophisticated weapons used in violent attacks were allegedly sourced from communities within the state.
Idemudia clarified that the 12 suspects arrested were not connected to the recent killing near the UNIBEN gate but were allegedly identified as members of various cult groups after incriminating items, symbols and signs were reportedly found on them.
He said the suspects had been handed over to the Anti-Cultism Unit of the Edo State Police Command for further investigation and profiling.
He further disclosed that one of the sealed apartments, located in Ogba-Evbuodia, was allegedly being used for cult initiation activities.
Security operatives were reportedly attacked while attempting to arrest suspects at the location, leading to the sealing of the property and the invitation of the landlord for questioning.
Another apartment at Evbuomore Quarters was also sealed after operatives allegedly discovered shrines and fetish items scattered across several rooms, suspected to be used for initiation into different confraternities.
The property owner has also been invited for questioning.
Idemudia warned sponsors of cultism and violent crimes in Edo State to desist immediately, stressing that anyone aiding criminal activities would face the full weight of the law.
He also cautioned against planned cult anniversary celebrations, stating that security agencies had already put measures in place to arrest anyone involved in unlawful gatherings linked to cult activities in the state.