The Edo State Police Command has apprehended 28 individuals suspected of engaging in cult-related activities across the state.
In a statement released on Friday by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Moses Yamu, the arrests occurred during a targeted raid on criminal hideouts in Benin City. After thorough screening, 19 suspects were found culpable and have been charged to court.
“The Edo State Command has sustained its fight against crime through visibility policing, community engagements, and sustained raids of criminal hideouts in the state,” Yamu stated. He further disclosed that three suspects confessed to membership in the Eiye and Aye confraternities and have already been arraigned.
The statement also highlighted that the command has initiated house-to-house operations to apprehend identified cult members as part of its broader efforts to curb cultism.
Edo State Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, expressed confidence in the measures being taken, reassuring the public of enhanced security.
He also issued a stern warning to known cultists, urging them to renounce their activities, leave the state, or face strict enforcement under the Edo State Secret Cult and Other Related Activities Prohibition Law.