Operatives of the Edo State Police Command, in collaboration with the Edo State Security Corps, have arrested 12 suspected cultists at Amazing Grace Estate, Elele Community, Uzairue, Auchi, in Edo North.
- +Police arrest 12 suspected cultists in Edo
The command’s spokesperson, CSP Eno Ikoedem, disclosed this in a statement on Monday.
The command’s spokesperson, CSP Eno Ikoedem, disclosed this in a statement on Monday.
She said the suspects were arrested on May 7 following a swift response by operatives to credible intelligence.
The suspects were identified as Abiola Anabgaifo, 33; Idogo Joshua, 28; Oseni Sani, 22; Aminu Abubakar, 19; Iyamah Precious, 29; Usman Raphael, 29; Ogene Jude, 31; Ibrahim Akeem, 27; Tunde Bright, 20; Jude Edeh, 21; Godwin Edeh, 19; and Aigbona Clifford, 20.
According to the statement, the suspects allegedly mobilised from Okpella to launch attacks on perceived rivals before they were apprehended around 6pm.
Ikoedem stated that preliminary investigations showed that seven of the suspects confessed to being members of cult groups, including the Aye and Vikings confraternities.
She added that operatives recovered a grey Mercedes-Benz Jeep with registration number GWA 471 DS allegedly belonging to one Balogun Israel, who is currently at large.
“Operatives of the Edo State Police Command in collaboration with the Edo State Security Corps arrested the suspects following credible intelligence,” the statement said.
“Preliminary investigations revealed that seven of the suspects confessed to being cultists, with some identified as members of the Aye and Vikings confraternities.”
The Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, commended the operatives for their swift response and professionalism.
He stressed that the command would sustain its crackdown on cultism and violent crimes across the state.
The CP added that the suspects had been transferred to the Anti-Cultism Unit and would be prosecuted after investigations are concluded.
He warned criminal elements to either repent or leave Edo State, insisting that the command remained prepared to deal decisively with anyone threatening public peace and security.
