The Edo State Special Security Squad has arrested several suspected cult leaders and members during a targeted raid on hideouts in Benin City, as part of intensified efforts to tackle insecurity and cult-related violence in the state.
The operation, which took place on Friday, was carried out in Evboutubu and Iguedaiyi village in Egor Local Government Area.
A suspected cult leader was reportedly apprehended at his residence in Iguedaiyi, where weapons and other incriminating items were recovered.
According to a statement released on Saturday by the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, Mr. Fred Itua, the security operation was conducted under the code name “Operation Flush Out Kidnappers and Cultists.”
Two previously arrested suspects were said to have provided intelligence that led security operatives to multiple hideouts where dangerous weapons and materials were found.
Speaking on the success of the raid, a member of the security team, Mr. Noah Ameloemen, stressed the professionalism guiding the squad’s operations and emphasized that their actions were intelligence-driven and devoid of political interference.
“We want the public to know that our operation is not politically motivated, as some persons are trying to paint it. We are focused on our mandate to rid Edo State of cultists and kidnappers,” Ameloemen said.
He also highlighted the role of community collaboration in achieving results:
“Today’s activities were successful. We recovered weapons from some of the arrested suspects and got useful information from residents who have been living in fear due to these cult groups. Their cooperation has been crucial.”
Ameloemen further noted that while the task force’s primary mission is to tackle cultism and kidnapping, the crackdown may expose other criminal activities which would be handled appropriately by relevant law enforcement agencies.
“The killings and insecurity in the state must be stopped, and all criminal elements must be arrested and brought to justice. We owe that to the people of Edo,” he added.
The squad includes personnel from the Nigerian Army, Police Force, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, local hunters, vigilantes, and even reformed cultists, all working under the directive of Governor Okpebholo to secure lives and restore peace in Edo communities.
Authorities have assured residents that similar operations will continue in other parts of the state in a sustained effort to rid Edo of violent crime.
