The Edo State Special Security Squad has apprehended nine suspected cultists and seized firearms during a raid in Iguoshodin N’ Ikpemaba, Ovia North-East Local Government Area of Edo State.
The Coordinator of the Squad, Idemudia Noah, confirmed the development in a statement issued on Thursday through the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, Fred Itua.
According to Noah, the operation was launched in the early hours of Wednesday, September 3, 2025, after residents raised alarm over cult-related activities in the community.
“Our men acted swiftly following a distress call that some suspected cult members were terrorising residents. We arrested nine individuals at the scene and recovered dangerous weapons,” he said.
The recovered items included two Baretta pistols, two cut-to-size double-barrel guns, and live AK-47 ammunition. Noah added that the weapons were discovered in a building allegedly linked to the Okaighele of Omi, Osazuwa Igbineweka, who has been declared wanted for allegedly breaching public peace.
“Before this raid, there had been several reports of unrest caused by cult members in Omi. The successful operation not only led to the arrest of the suspects but also exposed the arms they relied on to commit crimes,” he added.
Preliminary findings suggest the suspects belong to the Eiye confraternity, a group notorious for violent clashes in the state.
“From intelligence gathered and feedback from residents, it is clear that some of those arrested belong to the Eiye cult group. Their arrest has restored confidence among community members, who now feel safer,” Noah said.
Cult-related violence remains a major security challenge in Edo, with frequent rival clashes leading to deaths and destruction of property.
Earlier this year, police operatives arrested 28 suspected cultists in Benin City, 19 of whom were later prosecuted.
