In a major security breakthrough, the Edo State Police Command has arrested more than 200 individuals in a sweeping operation targeting violent crimes, kidnapping, and cult-related activities.
Over the past three months, law enforcement agents have apprehended 124 suspected cultists, 40 alleged kidnappers, and 11 others believed to be involved in armed robbery and similar offenses.
Commissioner of Police Monday Agbonika, speaking during a press briefing in Benin City, described the arrests as a result of “coordinated intelligence-driven operations, community support, and inter-agency collaboration.”
A significant cache of weapons was seized during the crackdown, including 45 assorted firearms—ranging from AK-47 rifles to pump-action shotguns—and 163 rounds of live ammunition.
Police also recovered dangerous weapons and materials associated with secret cult groups.
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Agbonika highlighted the menace of cultism in the state, confirming that many of those arrested had confessed to being members of outlawed groups such as the Ayes, Eiye, Maphites, NBM, and the Jurists Confraternity. The arrests were made during targeted raids in key hotspots including Benin City, Jattu, Auchi, Ekpoma, Igbanke, and Ikoro.
He added that 62 kidnapped victims have been successfully rescued, though he revealed with regret that a 12-year-old girl was killed by her captors before police could intervene.
“These operations have not only disrupted criminal networks but also significantly reduced the frequency of inter-cult clashes that have claimed lives and destabilized communities,” the police chief stated.
The Edo police say the fight is far from over, but the progress made so far signals a renewed commitment to restoring peace and order across the state.