Edo Security Squad Arrests 31 Cultists

The Edo State Special Security Squad, code-named ‘Operation Flush Out Kidnapping and Cultism’, has arrested 31 suspects following coordinated raids across Uromi in Esan North-East local government area of the State.

The arrests are linked to a violent clash between rival cult groups on Thursday, November 13, 2025, which left one individual hospitalised with severe injuries.

Acting on intelligence, the Squad conducted simultaneous raids on Sunday, November 16, 2025, targeting known hideouts in Osigbemhe Lane, Okhenlen-Uromi; Arue Street, Ivue-Uromi; and the Ewoyi axis of Uromi.

Leading the operation were the Chief Security Officer and Principal Security Officer to Governor Monday Okpebholo, supported by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Uromi, local vigilante teams, and personnel of the Nigerian Army.

The joint forces stormed residential locations occupied by members of the Black Axe and Eiye confraternities.

Incriminating items, including battle axes, cult insignia, charms, drugs and other dangerous materials, were recovered, further linking the suspects to the recent fracas.

Authorities have launched a manhunt for additional members believed to have fled during the raids.

Speaking after the operation, Squad Coordinator, Idemudia Noah, confirmed that the crackdown followed credible intelligence implicating several individuals in the clash, which stemmed from a dispute over a fraudulent financial transaction.

He disclosed that two alleged ringleaders, identified as Gift and Ache, remained at large, and their properties have been sealed pending further investigations.

Noah detailed that the first major raid occurred at an apartment at Osigbemhe Lane associated with a Black Axe member, while the second at Arue Street, targeted an Eiye Confraternity operative.

All suspects apprehended have been handed over to the Nigeria Police Force Area Command Headquarters in Uromi for processing and interrogation.

Meanwhile, the Squad has issued a seven-day ultimatum to the fleeing prime suspects to surrender themselves for questioning, warning that defiance will trigger decisive consequences from the State Government.