Operatives of the Edo State Special Security Squad, code-named “Operation Flush Out Cultists and Kidnappers,” have arrested 12 suspected cultists and sealed two apartments allegedly used as cult initiation centres during coordinated raids across several locations in Benin City.
In a statement Chief Press Secretary to State Governor Dr Patrick Akhere Ebojele said the operation followed the killing of a young man near the main gate of the University of Benin on Sunday, May 10, 2026.
The raids were led by the Chief Security Officer (CSO) and Principal Security Officer (PSO) to Governor Monday Okpebholo and covered identified hotspots including 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 various communities across the state were aiding criminal activities. He said intelligence reports indicated that sophisticated weapons used in violent attacks were often traced to communities within Edo State.
According to him, community leaders have been warned to maintain peace and ensure that no unlicensed weapons are harboured within their domains, stressing that any Okaighele found in possession of illegal firearms would be treated as a criminal.
“Reports reaching us indicate that some Okaigheles are allegedly harbouring criminals. Intelligence reports also suggest that sophisticated weapons used in deadly attacks on citizens are allegedly sourced from communities. The governor is warning Okaigheles to maintain peace in their various communities and ensure that no unlicensed weapons are found in their possession, as they will be held liable and treated as criminals,” Idemudia stated.
Clarifying the arrests, he noted that the 12 suspects were not directly linked to the killing near the UNIBEN gate but were allegedly identified as members of various cult groups after security operatives reportedly discovered cult-related symbols, signs and other incriminating materials in their possession.
He disclosed that the suspects had been transferred to the Anti-Cultism Unit of the Nigeria Police Force, Edo State Command, for profiling and further investigation.
Idemudia further revealed that one of the sealed apartments, located in Ogba-Evbuodia, was allegedly being used for cult initiation activities. He said operatives came under attack while attempting to arrest suspects at the location, prompting authorities to seal the premises and invite the property owner for questioning.
Another apartment raided at Evbuomore Quarters was reportedly found to contain shrines and fetish items scattered across several rooms, which investigators suspect were being used for initiation into different confraternities. The owner of the property has also been invited for questioning.
He reiterated the state government’s resolve to clamp down on cultism and violent crime, warning sponsors and collaborators to desist or face prosecution.
“The governor has warned those sponsoring cultism and violent killings in the state to desist immediately. Anyone found aiding criminality in Edo State will face the full weight of the law, as the state will no longer be conducive for criminal elements,” he said.
Idemudia also warned against planned cult-related gatherings and anniversary celebrations, stating that security agencies had already put measures in place to apprehend anyone involved.
“I want to warn that any planned cult anniversary celebrations should be suspended immediately. Strategies are already in place to arrest anyone involved in such unlawful gatherings. Cult anniversaries will not be tolerated in Edo State,” he added.
