Operatives of the Edo State Police Command, working alongside the Edo State Security Corps, have arrested 12 suspected cultists following a swift intelligence-led operation at Amazing Grace Estate in Elele Community, Uzairue, Auchi.
Disclosing this in a statement on Monday, the state Command’s Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikoedem, said the suspects — all male — were apprehended on May 7, 2026, at about 6:00 p.m. after allegedly mobilising from Okpella to launch attacks on rival groups.
Police identified the suspects as Abiola Anabgaifo, Idogo Joshua, Oseni Sani, Aminu Abubakar, Iyamah Precious, Usman Rapheal, Ogene Jude, Ibrahim Aheem, Tunde Bright, Jude Edeh, Godwin Edeh and Aigbona Clifford.
According to preliminary investigations, seven of the suspects allegedly confessed to involvement in cult-related activities, with some said to belong to the Aye and Vikings confraternities.
Security operatives also recovered a grey Mercedes-Benz Jeep with registration number GWA 471 DS, reportedly belonging to one Balogun Isreal, who is currently at large.
The Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, commended the operatives for their swift response and professionalism, reaffirming the Command’s commitment to sustaining its crackdown on cultism and other violent crimes across the state.
Police said the suspects have been transferred to the Anti-Cultism Unit for further investigation and will be prosecuted accordingly.
The Command also warned criminal elements to desist from unlawful activities or leave the state, stressing its readiness to deal decisively with anyone threatening public peace and security in Edo State.
