The Edo State Special Security Squad, codenamed Operation Flush Out Kidnapping and Cultism, has arrested 31 suspected cultists in a series of coordinated raids across Uromi, Esan North-East Local Government Area.
In a statement Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Edo State Owaen Fred Itua said the crackdown followed violent clashes between rival cult groups on November 13, which left one person critically injured. Acting on intelligence, security operatives carried out simultaneous raids on November 16 at identified hideouts in Osigbemhe Lane in Okhenlen-Uromi, Arue Street in Ivue-Uromi, and the Ewoyi axis.
The Chief Security Officer and Principal Security Officer to Governor Monday Okpebholo led the operation, working alongside the Divisional Police Officer of Uromi, local vigilantes, and Nigerian Army personnel. The team targeted suspected members of the Black Axe and Eiye confraternities.
Recovered items included battle axes, cult insignia, charms, drugs, and other materials believed to have been used in recent criminal activities. Authorities have since launched a manhunt for additional suspects who fled during the raids.
Squad Coordinator, Idemudia Noah, said the operation was prompted by credible intelligence linking several individuals to the recent clash, reportedly triggered by a fraudulent financial transaction. He confirmed that two alleged ringleaders—identified as Gift and Ache—remain at large, and that their properties have been sealed pending investigation.
Noah disclosed that the first major raid took place at an apartment on Osigbemhe Lane associated with a Black Axe member, while another raid at Arue Street targeted a suspected Eiye confraternity operative. All arrested suspects have been transferred to the Nigeria Police Force Area Command Headquarters in Uromi for further interrogation.
The Squad has issued a seven-day ultimatum to fleeing prime suspects to surrender, warning that failure to do so will attract decisive action from the State Government.
Noah also raised concern over the involvement of minors in some of the criminal activities uncovered during the raid. He warned that the government may begin taking legal action against parents of underage offenders as part of its preventive measures.
One suspect, Nathaniel Kingsley, arrested in Ewoyi-Uromi, denied belonging to any cult, despite the recovery of a battle axe—an emblem of the Black Axe confraternity—from his residence. He admitted to participating only in internet fraud.
Reaffirming the government’s zero-tolerance stance on cultism, Noah said all suspects will be thoroughly investigated and prosecuted. “Edo State will not serve as a haven for criminals. We are committed to safeguarding our communities and restoring public confidence,” he added.
The operation concluded with a show of force across parts of Edo Central Senatorial District, signalling the state’s continued resolve to combat emerging security threats.
