The Edo State Special Security Squad, codenamed “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 parts of Benin City.
The operation followed the killing of a young man in front of the 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 Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo. Areas affected included Ekosodin, Isihor, Old Road off S&T Barracks, Airport Road, 19th Street Ugbowo, Ogba-Evbuodia and Evbuomore Quarters in Benin City.
Speaking on the operation, spokesperson for the security squad, Noah Idemudia, alleged that some Okaigheles in 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.
Idemudia warned community leaders to ensure peace in their areas, stressing that any Okaighele found with unlicensed weapons 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,” he said.
He clarified that the 12 suspects arrested were not connected to the killing near the UNIBEN gate but were allegedly identified as members of various cult groups after symbols, signs and incriminating materials were reportedly found on them.
According to him, the suspects have been handed over to the Anti-Cultism Unit of the Nigeria Police Force for profiling and further investigation.
Idemudia said one of the sealed properties, located in Ogba-Evbuodia, was allegedly being used for cult initiation activities.
He alleged that operatives who attempted to arrest suspects at the location were attacked, prompting authorities to seal the apartment and invite the property owner for questioning.
He added that another apartment raided at Evbuomore Quarters contained 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 spokesperson further warned sponsors of cultism and violent crimes in the state 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,” he stated.
He also cautioned against planned cult anniversary celebrations, saying security agencies were prepared to arrest anyone involved in unlawful gatherings linked to cult groups.