The Edo State Special Security Squad, codenamed Operation Flush Out Cultists and Kidnappers, has arrested nine suspected cultists and recovered firearms in Iguoshodin N’ Ikpemaba, Ovia North East Local Government Area.
Coordinator of the Squad, Idemudia Noah, said that the raid, carried out in the early hours of September 3, followed intelligence reports and a distress call that cult members were terrorising residents.
He disclosed that the operatives recovered two Baretta pistols, two cut-to-size double-barrel guns, and live AK-47 ammunition from a building allegedly belonging to the Okaighele of Omi, Mr. Osazuwa Igbineweka, who has been declared wanted by the police.
According to Noah, preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects were members of the Eiye confraternity, notorious for violent clashes and criminal activities in several Edo communities.
“Their arrest has restored confidence among residents, who commended the security agencies for timely intervention,” he said.
The Special Squad reaffirmed its commitment to flushing out cultism, kidnapping, and violent crimes in Edo, assuring that it would continue to work with communities to dismantle criminal networks.
