The Edo State Special Security Squad, code-named “Operation Flush Out Cultists and Kidnappers,” has arrested 12 suspected cultists and sealed two apartments allegedly used as cult initiation centres during coordinated raids across several parts of Benin City.
The operation was launched following the killing of a young man near the gate of the University of Benin (UNIBEN) 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 targeted locations including Ekosodin, Isihor, Old Road off S&T Barracks, Airport Road, 19th Street Ugbowo, Ogba-Evbuodia and Evbuomore Quarters.
Speaking on the development, spokesperson for the security squad, Noah Idemudia, alleged that some Okaigheles in various communities across Edo State were aiding criminal activities by harbouring suspects and facilitating access to weapons used in violent attacks.
According to him, intelligence reports indicated that sophisticated weapons linked to deadly crimes were often traced to communities within the state.
“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,” Idemudia said.
He warned community leaders to ensure peace within their domains, stressing that any Okaighele found with unlicensed weapons would be treated as a criminal.
Idemudia clarified that the 12 suspects arrested during the raids were not directly connected to the recent killing near the UNIBEN gate. However, he said they were allegedly identified as members of different cult groups after security operatives reportedly discovered symbols, signs and other incriminating materials in their possession.
He added that the suspects had been handed over to the Anti-Cultism Unit of the Nigeria Police Force, Edo State Command, for profiling and further investigation.
On the sealed properties, Idemudia disclosed that one apartment located in Ogba-Evbuodia was allegedly being used for cult initiation activities. He claimed that operatives came under attack while attempting to arrest suspects at the location, prompting the sealing of the building and the invitation of the property owner for questioning.
Another apartment raided at Evbuomore Quarters was reportedly found with shrines and fetish items scattered across several rooms, which investigators suspect were used for initiation into different confraternities. The owner of the property has also been invited for questioning.
“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,” Idemudia stated.
He also warned against unlawful gatherings, alleging that some cult groups were planning anniversary celebrations in the state.
“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.
