The Edo State Government has announced the arrest of 12 suspected cultists and the sealing of two apartments allegedly used for cult initiation activities during coordinated security raids across parts of Benin City.

The operation was carried out by the state’s Special Security Squad, known as Operation Flush Out Cultists and Kidnappers, following the killing of a young man near the gate of the University of Benin on May 10, 2026.

Security Operatives Raid Multiple Locations

The raids were reportedly led by the Chief Security Officer and Principal Security Officer to Governor Monday Okpebholo.

Areas targeted during the operation included Ekosodin, Isihor, Old Road off S&T Barracks, Airport Road, 19th Street Ugbowo, Ogba-Evbuodia, and Evbuomore Quarters.

According to the spokesperson for the security squad, Noah Idemudia, intelligence reports linked some communities to the circulation of illegal weapons allegedly used in violent attacks across the state.

He accused certain Okaigheles in Edo communities of allegedly aiding criminal activities and warned that community leaders would be held accountable if unlicensed weapons were discovered in their domains.

“The governor is warning Okaigheles 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,” he stated.

Suspects Handed Over to Police

Idemudia clarified that the 12 suspects arrested during the raids were not directly connected to the killing near the UNIBEN gate.

However, he explained that security operatives allegedly identified them as members of different cult groups after discovering cult-related signs, symbols, and incriminating materials in their possession.

The suspects have since been transferred to the Anti-Cultism Unit of the Edo State Police Command for further investigation.

Apartments Sealed Over Alleged Cult Activities

The security squad also sealed two apartments allegedly linked to cultism and initiation activities.

According to Idemudia, one of the apartments located in Ogba-Evbuodia was reportedly being used as a cult initiation centre.

He alleged that operatives came under attack while attempting to arrest suspects at the location, leading to the sealing of the property and the invitation of the landlord for questioning.

Another apartment in Evbuomore Quarters was allegedly found with shrines and fetish objects scattered across several rooms, which investigators suspect were connected to cult initiation practices.

The owner of the property was also invited for questioning by security authorities.

Government Warns Against Cult Activities

The Edo State Government warned individuals allegedly sponsoring cultism and violent crimes to desist immediately or face severe consequences.

Idemudia also issued a strong warning against any planned cult anniversary celebrations in the state.

“I want to warn that any planned cult anniversary celebrations should be suspended immediately,” he said.

“Strategies are already in place to arrest anyone involved in such unlawful gatherings. Cult anniversaries will not be tolerated in Edo State.”

The latest operation forms part of ongoing efforts by the Edo State Government to tackle cult-related violence and insecurity across Benin City and surrounding communities.