Okpebholo Establishes Special Squad Against Cultism, Kidnapping

The Edo State governor, Monday Okpebholo has approved the establishment of a Special Security Squad aimed at flushing out kidnappers and cultists terrorising the state in a bid to address the rising wave of insecurity.

The new operation, titled “Operation Flush Out Kidnappers and Cultists”, is a strategic initiative by the Office of the Principal Security Officer (PSO) to the Governor and will be coordinated jointly by the PSO and the Chief Security Officer (CSO) at the Government House.

The chief press secretary to the governor, Fred Itua in a statement yesterday regretted that for years the state grappled with worsening security challenges, especially in the form of rampant cultism and targeted kidnappings.

He identified Benin City, Ekpoma, Auchi, and their environs as the most affected areas with reports of daylight abductions, cult-related killings, and extortion by criminal gangs.

The statement reads, “This state of insecurity had led to the exodus of investors, disrupted local economies, and left residents living in fear.

“Since assuming office, Governor Okpebholo has made security a top priority. One of his earliest declarations was the intention to offer amnesty and reintegration to repentant cultists, encouraging them to turn a new leaf and contribute to society.

“This initiative yielded early success as some former cult members embraced the call and joined community policing and civic education programs.

“However, the continued activities of hardened criminals have necessitated a more robust response. According to a formal memo, dated July 11, 2025, the new operation will collaborate with the Nigeria Police and other sister security agencies to dislodge deadly cultists and kidnapping syndicates operating across the 18 local government areas.

“The squad will consist of a carefully profiled and recruited team of able-bodied men, including repentant cultists, hunters, and vigilantes”.