The Edo State Police Command on Tuesday confirmed the arrest of four suspected cultists in various locations in Auchi, Etsako West Local Government Area.
In a statement, the command’s spokesperson, SP Moses Yamu, said the suspects were apprehended during a coordinated house-to-house operation conducted by operatives from the Anti-Cultism Unit, Jattu Division, and Auchi Division.
According to Yamu, intelligence reports linked the suspects to recent cult-related violence in Auchi and surrounding communities.
The statement reads: “On June 22, 2025, operatives of the Command’s Anti-Cultism Unit, in collaboration with Jattu and Auchi Divisions, carried out a house-to-house arrest operation.
“Four suspects were arrested: Musa Murphy (25) of 35 Ogeneni area, Jattu, Auchi, a member of Arobaga Confraternity; Gabriel Moses (25) of Ecocota Community, Auchi, linked to Aye Confraternity; Michael Ayo (23) of 1 Emeke Uzuire, Auchi, associated with Eiye Confraternity; and Philip Sunday (24) of Ebira Camp, Auchi, identified as a member of Vikings Confraternity.”
Yamu added that the suspects are under investigation and will be charged to court upon its conclusion.
Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, reiterated the command’s commitment to eradicating cultism and restoring peace and safety in Edo communities.
