From Ebohon Joan
Security operatives in Edo State have arrested two suspects over alleged organ harvesting, ritual activities and cult-related offences, while buildings reportedly linked to the alleged crimes have been demolished in Uromi and Ewatto.
The operations were carried out by the Edo State Special Security Squad, known as Operation Flush Out Kidnapping and Cultists, in collaboration with the Edo State Security Corps, the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies.
The exercise took place in Uromi, Esan North-East Local Government Area, and Ewatto, Esan South-East Local Government Area, under the supervision of the governor’s Principal Security Officer.
A bungalow and boys’ quarters belonging to a 40-year-old suspect, identified as Ebhata Eromosele, were demolished at Uwalor-Oke in Uromi. Security officials alleged that the property was used for ritual activities and the harvesting of human organs.
According to the officials, three young women were allegedly attacked in connection with the case. One of the victims, who was reportedly pregnant, died, while another victim who was hospitalised has been discharged. The third victim is said to be receiving treatment at an undisclosed hospital in Esan Central Senatorial District.
Bloodstained Materials Found During Search, Officials Say
Speaking to journalists after the operation, the coordinator of Operation Flush Out Kidnapping and Cultists, Amiolemen Idemudia, said Eromosele had allegedly engaged in ritual activities before his arrest.
Idemudia stated that the demolition followed investigations linking the property to suspected criminal activities. He added that the state government would continue its efforts to tackle kidnapping, cultism and other serious crimes.
According to him, a search of the premises uncovered a bloodstained bedspread and other items that security operatives considered relevant to the investigation.
He also said a body found at the property had drawn the attention of security personnel to the location.
Idemudia reiterated the position of Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration that properties allegedly used as criminal hideouts would face appropriate action under the government’s security campaign.
Second Building Demolished Over Alleged Cult Activities
In a related operation, security operatives demolished another building at Idi-Negbon Eguare in Ewatto, Esan South-East Local Government Area.
The property was allegedly used for cult-related activities that had reportedly contributed to unrest in the community.
Idemudia identified Bright Ejetuwamen as a suspected leading figure in the disturbances, alleging that his property was used in connection with cult activities. He said the suspect had been arrested.
The coordinator warned that the government would continue to target locations allegedly used to plan or carry out criminal activities, adding that the administration was determined to improve security across Edo State.
Month-Long Surveillance Led to Arrest, Security Corps Says
The Zonal Commander of the Edo State Security Corps, SP Johnson Oyameda (rtd.), attributed the arrest in the alleged organ-harvesting case to more than a month of surveillance.
Oyameda said security personnel had been investigating reports involving the recovery of mutilated bodies in the area.
He explained that the discovery of a woman’s body in a drainage, followed by another similar incident less than two weeks later, prompted security operatives to intensify surveillance.
According to him, officers subsequently tracked Eromosele to the property after observing suspicious activities.
The zonal commander alleged that three women had been victims of the suspect’s activities, with one dying and the others receiving medical attention.
He added that bloodstained materials and other items were recovered during a search of the premises and would form part of the ongoing investigation.
Suspects in Police Custody
The security officials confirmed that the two suspects had been arrested and were in the custody of the Edo State Police Command for further investigation and possible prosecution.
The state government has reiterated its commitment to tackling kidnapping, cultism, ritual-related offences and other criminal activities.
Authorities have also urged residents to cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information that could help prevent crime and improve safety in their communities.
The allegations against the suspects remain subject to police investigation and judicial determination.
