Operatives of the Edo State Police Command, in collaboration with the Edo State Security Corps (ESSC), have arrested 12 suspected cultists in Auchi, Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State.
The suspects were arrested on May 7, 2026, at about 6:00pm during a swift operation at Amazing Grace Estate, Elele Community, Uzairue, following credible intelligence reportedly linking them to planned attacks on rival cult groups.
The suspects identified by the police are Abiola Anabgaifo, 33; Idogo Joshua, 28; Oseni Sani, 22; Aminu Abubakar, 19; Iyamah Precious, 29; Usman Rapheal, 29; Ogene Jude, 31; Ibrahim Aheem, 27; Tunde Bright, 20; Jude Edeh, 21; Godwin Edeh, 19; and Aigbona Clifford, 20.
According to the police, the suspects allegedly mobilised from Okpella to launch attacks on perceived rivals before they were intercepted by security operatives.
Further details obtained by this online newspaper revealed that seven of the suspects allegedly confessed during preliminary investigations to involvement in cult-related activities, with some identified as members of the notorious Aye and Vikings confraternities.
Police also recovered a grey Mercedes Benz Jeep with registration number GWA 471 DS, allegedly belonging to one Balogun Isreal, who is currently at large.
In a statement issued by the Edo State Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikioedem, the Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, commended the professionalism and swift response of the operatives involved in the operation.
The police boss reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to sustaining the crackdown on cultism and violent crimes across Edo State, warning criminal elements to either repent or leave the state.
“All suspects have been transferred to the Anti-Cultism Unit and will be prosecuted upon conclusion of investigation,” the statement added.
