Security operatives in Edo State have intensified their crackdown on suspected cult-related activities, arresting 12 individuals and shutting down two residential apartments allegedly used as initiation centres in Benin City.
The coordinated operation was carried out by the Edo State Special Security Squad, led by the Chief Security Officer and Principal Security Officer to Governor Monday Okpebholo, following a recent killing near the University of Benin (UNIBEN) gate on May 10.
Authorities clarified that while the arrests were made in connection with broader cult intelligence operations, none of the 12 suspects were directly linked to the UNIBEN incident. According to the security team, the individuals were identified as alleged members of different cult groups after items and symbols associated with confraternities were reportedly found on them.
Spokesperson for the squad, Noah Idemudia, said the operation also uncovered what investigators described as organized cult-related activities across multiple locations in the city. He further alleged that some community youth leaders, known as Okaigheles, may be indirectly enabling criminal networks by providing cover or access to weapons.
Idemudia warned that any local leader found in possession of illegal firearms or linked to violent groups would be treated as a criminal under the law.
“One of the apartments at Ogba-Evbuodia was allegedly used for initiation activities. Attempts by operatives to make arrests there were resisted, leading to the sealing of the property,” he said.
He added that a second location in Evbuomore Quarters reportedly contained fetish items and shrine-like setups across several rooms, which investigators believe were used for initiation rituals into different groups. The property owners have been invited for questioning.
All 12 suspects have been transferred to the Anti-Cultism Unit of the Nigeria Police Force in Edo State for profiling and further investigation.
The security team also warned against planned gatherings by suspected cult groups, saying intelligence indicates possible anniversary celebrations that could heighten tensions.
Reiterating the state government’s stance, Idemudia said Edo would not tolerate activities that threaten public peace, stressing that individuals or groups found aiding cultism or violent crime would face full legal consequences.
Authorities say the operation is part of ongoing efforts to dismantle cult networks and reduce violent crime across the state.
Edo Security Sweep Targets Suspected Cult Hideouts, 12 Arrested
