Operatives of the Edo State Special Security Squad have arrested 12 suspected cultists during an alleged cult initiation ceremony in Benin City, the Edo State capital.
Daily Trust reports that the squad also sealed two apartments allegedly used for cult initiation activities during coordinated raids across several hotspots in the city.
The suspects were arrested during raids carried out in Ekosodin, Isihor, Old Road off S and T Barracks, Airport Road, 19th Street, Ugbowo, Ogba-Evbuodia and Evbuomore Quarters following the recent killing of a student near the University of Benin (UNIBEN) gate on Sunday.
The squad’s spokesperson, Noah Idemudia, said the 12 suspects arrested were not directly linked to the killing but were allegedly identified as members of various cult groups after symbols, signs and other incriminating materials were reportedly found on them.
He disclosed that the suspects had been handed over to the Anti-Cultism Unit of the Nigeria Police Force, Edo State Command, for profiling and further investigation.
Idemudia explained that one of the sealed apartments located in Ogba-Evbuodia was allegedly being used for cult initiation activities.
According to him, operatives who attempted to arrest suspects at the location were attacked, prompting authorities to seal the property and invite the owner for questioning.
He further alleged that some Okaigheles across communities in the state were aiding violent crimes.
According to him, intelligence reports indicate that sophisticated weapons used in deadly attacks are often traced to communities within the state.
He warned community leaders to ensure peace within their domains, stressing that any Okaighele found in possession of unlicensed weapons would be treated as a criminal.
‘Reports reaching us indicate that some Okaigheles are allegedly harbouring criminals. Intelligence reports also suggest that sophisticated weapons used in deadly attacks on citizens are allegedly sourced from communities,’ he said.