The Edo State Special Security Squad has arrested four suspected cultists and recovered a cache of dangerous weapons during a raid on a suspected cult hideout in Egbaen Community, Ovia North East Local Government Area of the state.
The operation, conducted in collaboration with other security agencies, was based on intelligence reports indicating that members of a cult group were planning activities capable of disrupting public peace and security within the community.
A statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, Dr Patrick Ebojele, disclosed that the operation was led by the governor’s Principal Security Officer, Saturday Okoh, alongside members of the special security squad.
According to the statement, the security team stormed the hideout at approximately 6:00 a.m., leading to the arrest of four suspects believed to be linked to cult-related activities.
During the operation, security personnel reportedly recovered four locally made pistols, a cut-to-size firearm, one Beretta pistol and a machete from the premises.
Although the suspects reportedly denied ownership of the recovered weapons, they allegedly admitted to being members of the Aiye Confraternity.
Speaking on the operation, the coordinator of the Special Security Squad, Noah Idemudia, attributed the success of the raid to credible intelligence supplied by members of the public.
He stressed the importance of community participation in security efforts and encouraged residents to continue providing useful information capable of preventing crime and maintaining public safety.
“In the early hours of Sunday, we received intelligence that some members of the group planned to carry out an initiation in Egbaen Community, which could have led to other criminal activities capable of causing a breakdown of law and order,” Idemudia said.
“We responded promptly, moved into the community and successfully apprehended four suspects while recovering dangerous weapons.”
He commended residents for their cooperation with security agencies, noting that public support has continued to play a crucial role in the squad’s operations.
According to him, intelligence-driven interventions have enabled the security outfit to record notable successes in tackling criminal activities across various parts of the state.
Idemudia assured residents that the security squad would sustain efforts aimed at dismantling criminal networks and preventing cult-related violence.
He reiterated the state government’s commitment to ensuring the safety of lives and property while strengthening collaboration among security agencies operating within Edo State.
The suspects are expected to face further investigation as authorities work to determine the extent of their involvement in cult activities and other criminal offences.
