Edo Security Squad operatives arrested 12 suspected cultists and sealed two alleged initiation centres during raids across Benin City.

Security operatives in Edo State have arrested 12 suspected cultists during raids across Benin City.

The squad also sealed two apartments allegedly used for cult initiation activities.

The operation followed the killing of a young man near the University of Benin gate on May 10.

Members of the Special Security Squad carried out the raids in several parts of the city.

The affected areas included Ekosodin, Isihor, Airport Road, Ugbowo and Ogba-Evbuodia.

The Chief Security Officer and Principal Security Officer to Governor Monday Okpebholo led the operation.

Meanwhile, squad spokesperson, Noah Idemudia, accused some Okaigheles of helping criminal groups.

According to him, intelligence reports linked some communities to illegal weapons.

He warned community leaders to maintain peace in their areas.

He also said security agencies would treat anyone with illegal weapons as a criminal.

“Some reports suggest that criminals hide in some communities. Illegal weapons also come from some of these areas,” he said.

 Edo Security Squad Arrests 12 Suspected Cultists in Benin

Furthermore, Idemudia explained that the 12 suspects had no link to the UNIBEN killing.

However, operatives allegedly found cult signs and other materials on them.

Police officers have now transferred the suspects to the Anti-Cultism Unit for investigation.

In addition, the squad sealed two apartments during the raids.

One apartment in Ogba-Evbuodia allegedly served as a cult initiation centre.

Idemudia said some suspects attacked operatives during the raid.

As a result, authorities sealed the building and invited the owner for questioning.

Security operatives also raided another apartment at Evbuomore Quarters.

They reportedly found shrines and fetish items inside several rooms.

Investigators suspect cult groups used the property for initiation activities.

The authorities have also invited the property owner for questioning.

Meanwhile, the state government warned cult groups and their sponsors to stop all illegal activities.

Idemudia also warned against planned cult anniversary celebrations in Edo State.

According to him, security agencies will arrest anyone involved in unlawful gatherings.