BENIN CITY – The Edo State Special Security Squad, codenamed Operation Flush Out Cultists and Kidnappers, has recorded another breakthrough in its crackdown on criminal activities with the arrest of nine suspected cultists and the recovery of a cache of firearms in Iguoshodin N’ Ikpemaba, Ovia North East Local Government Area.
Coordinator of the squad, Idemudia Noah, said the raid was conducted in collaboration with security agencies and community stakeholders after credible intelligence was received from residents.
According to him, operatives stormed the community in the early hours of September 3, 2025, following a distress call that cultists were terrorising locals.
“On arrival, our men moved swiftly and arrested nine suspects. A thorough search of the area led to the recovery of two Beretta pistols, two cut-to-size double-barrel guns, and live AK-47 ammunition,” Noah disclosed.
He further revealed that the weapons were recovered from a building allegedly belonging to Mr. Osazuwa Igbineweka, the Okaighele of Omi, who has since been declared wanted by police for allegedly posing a threat to peace in the community.
Residents reportedly expressed relief at the arrests, which Noah said have restored confidence in security efforts. Preliminary findings also indicate that some suspects are linked to the Eiye confraternity.
Meanwhile, Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has reiterated his administration’s commitment to tackling insecurity, commissioning over 300 motorbikes for deployment across the three senatorial districts.
Speaking at the commissioning in Government House, Benin City, the governor said the bikes would help security agencies access hard-to-reach forest areas often used as hideouts by criminals.
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“Let me be clear, criminals must leave Edo State. These motorbikes, along with other security technologies we are deploying, will make it very difficult for them to operate. We are not just equipping the system, we are maintaining it,” Governor Okpebholo said.
The event was attended by top security officials, including Edo State Commissioner of Police, CP Monday Agbonika, Commander of the 4 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brig. Gen. Ebenezer Oduyebo, and the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Alhaji Gani Audu.
