Security operatives in Edo State have arrested 12 suspected cultists and sealed two apartments allegedly used as initiation centres during coordinated raids across several parts of Edo State.
The state’s Special Security Squad carried out the operation, codenamed “Operation Flush Out Cultists and Kidnappers”, following the killing of a young man in front of the gate of the University of Benin on Sunday, May 10, 2026.
This was disclosed in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, Patrick Ebojele.
Search on Sells.ng Nigeria's First Ecommerce Shopping Search Engine ...For More About This Post: Okpebholo Condemns UNIBEN Killing, Vows To Intensify Fight Against Cultism
According to the statement, the Chief Security Officer and Principal Security Officer to the governor led the security squad in raids conducted in Ekosodin, Isihor, Old Road off S&T Barracks, Airport Road, 19th Street Ugbowo, Ogba-Evbuodia, and Evbuomore Quarters, all in Benin City.
Spokesman for the squad, Noah Idemudia, alleged that some youth leaders in the Benin communities were aiding violent crimes across the state.
He said intelligence reports indicated that sophisticated weapons used in deadly attacks were often traced to communities within the state.
“Reports reaching us indicate that some (name withheld) are allegedly harbouring criminals. Intelligence reports also suggest that sophisticated weapons used in deadly attacks on citizens are allegedly sourced from communities.
“The governor is warning (name withheld) to maintain peace in their various communities and ensure that no unlicensed weapons are found in their possession, as they will be held liable and treated as criminals,” Idemudia said.
Idemudia clarified that the 12 suspects arrested were not connected to the killing near the university gate.
However, he said they were allegedly identified as members of different cult groups after security operatives reportedly found symbols, signs, and other incriminating materials on them.
He added that the suspects had been handed over to the Anti-Cultism Unit of the Nigeria Police Force for profiling and further investigation.
On the two properties sealed during the operation, Idemudia said one apartment in (name withheld) was allegedly being used for cult initiation activities.
According to him, operatives came under attack while attempting to arrest suspects at the location, prompting authorities to seal the premises and invite the property owner for questioning.
He said another apartment raided allegedly 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 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, as the state will no longer be conducive for criminal elements,” Idemudia said.
He also warned against unlawful gatherings, alleging that some cult groups were planning anniversary celebrations.
The post Security Operatives Arrest 12 Suspected Cultists In Edo, Seal Alleged Initiation Centres appeared first on Channels Television.