By Rasheed Lateef
Operatives of the Edo State Police Command and the Edo State Security Corps (ESSC) have arrested 12 suspected cultists during a joint operation in Edo North Senatorial District.
The security operatives reportedly intercepted the suspects at Amazing Grace Estate in Elele community, Uzairue, Etsako West Local Government Area, following intelligence reports of an alleged planned attack linked to rival cult groups.
Spokesperson of the Edo State Police Command, ASP Eno Ikoedem, confirmed the development in a statement issued on Monday, 11t, 2026 in Benin City.
According to the police, the suspects allegedly mobilised from Okpella in Etsako East Local Government Area before security operatives tracked and arrested them on May 7 at about 6 p.m.
Police identified the suspects as Abiola Anabgaifo, Idogo Joshua, Oseni Sani, Aminu Abubakar, Iyamah Precious, Usman Raphael, Ogene Jude, Ibrahim Aheem, Tunde Bright, Jude Edeh, Godwin Edeh and Aigbona Clifford.
The command disclosed that preliminary investigations linked some of the suspects to the Aye and Vikings confraternities.
Security operatives also recovered a grey Mercedes-Benz Jeep with registration number GWA 471 DS during the operation. Police said the vehicle allegedly belonged to one Balogun Israel, who is currently on the run.
The command added that investigators transferred the suspects to the Anti-Cultism Unit for further investigation and possible prosecution.
Reacting to the operation, Edo State Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, commended officers involved in the raid and reiterated the command’s commitment to tackling cult-related violence and other crimes across the state.
He warned criminal groups operating within Edo State to desist from unlawful activities or face decisive action from security agencies.
The latest arrests come amid renewed security operations against cultism, kidnapping and violent crimes in different parts of Edo State following growing concerns over clashes involving rival groups.
