The Edo State Special Security Squad, operating under the codename Operation Flush Out Cultists and Kidnappers, has taken decisive action by demolishing properties tied to alleged cult members within the Etsako West local government area.
This crackdown was spearheaded by the Chief Security Officer of the Government House alongside the Governor’s Principal Security Officer.
During the operation, approximately 20 individuals were detained, and four structures were razed. Among these was a building on Egbiadokhai Street in Auchi, owned by a notorious cult figure known as ‘Too-Believe’.
Inside this property, authorities discovered two modified firearms, two black berets linked to the Black Axe secret society, and a sharp axe.
The recent enforcement action was prompted by the violent death of a young barber in South Ibie, a casualty of ongoing cult-related conflicts.
Another residence on Anoguele Street, Iyakpi, South-Ibie, belonging to a suspected Eiye Confraternity member named Kuwat, was also demolished. Kuwat had already absconded by the time security forces arrived and is identified as the principal orchestrator behind the barber’s murder.
Additionally, a property in the Ogodomiza Area of Ibie-Nafe, owned by another cult leader, was destroyed. This location had been raided the previous day, resulting in the arrest of two youths, Momoh Austin (17) and Joseph Oyazojo (21).
Both detainees admitted to being recruited to the area for cybercrime activities, commonly referred to as ‘Yahoo Yahoo’.
Further operations included a sweep at Hybrid Hotel and Suites in Elele, Uzairue, where more suspects were apprehended.
Following the demolition at Egbiadokhai Street, John Izegaegbe, Secretary of the State Security Squad, stated that the Governor had previously granted a 166-day amnesty period for cultists to renounce their affiliations, coupled with offers of soft loans and vocational training.
“That opportunity was disregarded. Now, urgent measures are necessary. This demolition serves as a stern warning to landlords and cult members alike: abandon cultism or face stringent legal consequences,” he declared.
Izegaegbe highlighted that the demolished house was directly connected to the recent murder in Auchi, with incriminating evidence such as weapons and cult paraphernalia recovered on site.
Another security official, Eribo Emwanta, urged parents and hotel proprietors to remain alert.
“We are committed to cleansing these communities, and hotels that provide refuge to criminals will be targeted next,” he warned.
