The Edo Special Security Squad has arrested some suspected cult leaders and members in Evboutubu, Benin, as part of efforts to ensure a safe and peaceful environment for residents of the state.
The squad, code-named “Operation Flush Out Kidnappers and Cultists”, was set up by Governor Monday Okpebholo to keep Edo State safe.
On Friday, the squad conducted another raid and arrested a suspected leader of a cult group in his hideout at Iguedaiyi village. His residence was searched, and weapons were recovered.
According to a press statement on Saturday by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, two previously suspected cult members arrested in similar operations led by the squad assisted in the discovery of several hideouts of their members, where weapons and other dangerous materials were found.
He said the team, which is made up of the Military, Police, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Hunters, Vigilante groups, and repentant cultists, among other critical stakeholders in Edo State, carried out a coordinated raid of several hotspots in Egor Local Government Area of Edo State.
Speaking on the recent developments after the activities of the Security Squad on Friday, a member of the team, Noah Ameloemen, noted that the operation of the team is based on intelligence reports and investigation.
He said they are guided by professionalism and accountability, as community engagement remains the hallmark of their operations.
Ameloemen added, “We want the public to know that our operation is not politically motivated, as some persons are trying to tarnish the image of the squad. We will keep our heads straight and do the job we are called to do.
“We will do it perfectly well, knowing that the people of the state are expecting so much from the Governor Monday Okpebholo-led administration.
“Today’s activities were a success as the team recovered weapons from suspected cult leaders arrested. We are getting cooperation from communities. These community members have complained bitterly about the operations of some of the arrested cult members.
“Those we arrested are cultists, but if they are involved in other criminal activities, it is the law enforcement agencies that will prove that,” he noted.
Ameloemen said the mandate of the team is to flush out kidnappers and cultists, but in the process of carrying out the team’s duty, other crimes might surface.
“The killings and insecurity in the state must be stopped, and all criminal elements must be arrested and brought to book to ensure the state is safe for all Edo people,” he noted.
