Security operatives in Edo State have arrested 12 suspected cultists and sealed off two apartments allegedly used as initiation centres during coordinated raids across parts of Benin City.
The operation was carried out by the state’s Special Security Squad under the code name “Operation Flush Out Cultists and Kidnappers”, following the killing of a young man at the University of Benin gate on Sunday, May 10, 2026.
According to a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, Patrick Ebojele, the raids were conducted across several locations, including Ekosodin, Isihor, Old Road off S&T Barracks, Airport Road, 19th Street Ugbowo, Ogba-Evbuodia, and Evbuomore Quarters.
The Chief Security Officer and Principal Security Officer to the governor reportedly led the coordinated operation.
A spokesperson for the squad, Noah Idemudia, alleged that some youth leaders in certain communities were aiding criminal activities and warned against harbouring offenders.
“Reports reaching us indicate that some (name withheld) are allegedly harbouring criminals,” he said, adding that intelligence also linked certain communities to the sourcing of weapons used in violent attacks.
He further warned that anyone found aiding criminal activity would be held accountable.
During the operation, security operatives arrested 12 suspects, who officials said were not linked to the recent killing at the University of Benin gate but were identified as members of different cult groups.
According to Idemudia, the suspects were found with symbols, signs, and other materials believed to be linked to cult activities.
“The suspects have been handed over to the Anti-Cultism Unit of the Nigeria Police Force for profiling and further investigation,” he said.
Two apartments were also sealed during the raids. One of the locations was allegedly used for cult initiation activities, while the second reportedly contained shrines and fetish items.
Idemudia said operatives faced resistance during an attempt to arrest suspects at one of the locations, leading to the sealing of the property and the invitation of the owner for questioning.
He added that investigations were ongoing to determine the extent of cult-related activities in the affected areas.
“The governor has warned those sponsoring cultism and violent killings in the state to desist immediately,” he stated, adding that the state would no longer tolerate criminal elements.
