Operatives of the Edo State Police Command have arrested two suspected cultists during a security operation in Ohonre Community, off Adolor College Road in Benin City.
The command’s spokesperson, CSP Eno Ikoedem, disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday, explaining that the arrest followed a distress report about suspicious movements and gathering of suspected cult members within the area.
According to the statement, officers attached to the Ugbowo Division were on surveillance patrol at about 7:00 p.m. on May 21, 2026, when they received information about the activities of the suspected cultists.
“Acting swiftly on the report, operatives mobilised to the scene. On sighting the police, the suspects attempted to escape, but the officers immediately went after them,” the statement said.
The police arrested two suspects identified as Victor Peter, 21, and Iyemoma Ogbewe, 35.
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A search conducted on the suspects reportedly led to the recovery of a cut-to-size gun believed to have been used for unlawful activities.
During interrogation, the suspects allegedly confessed to being members of the notorious Maphite cult group, while efforts are ongoing to track down other fleeing members of the gang.
The Commissioner of Police in Edo State, Monday Agbonika, commended the operatives for their quick response and professionalism during the operation.
He also reaffirmed the command’s commitment to combating cultism and other criminal activities across the state.
The police boss further urged residents to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information, assuring the public that all reports would be treated with urgency and confidentiality.
