Following the resurgence of cult-related violence in Benin City, the Edo State Government has issued a seven-day ultimatum to three community youth leaders, popularly known as Okaigheles, to appear before the Special Security Squad, code-named Operation Flush Out Cultists and Kidnappers.
The leaders are to report to the squad at the Government House to clear themselves of alleged involvement in recent cult killings across the state. One of the affected leaders is already in police custody.
The administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo has reaffirmed its resolve to rid Edo State of cultism and related criminal activities.
In response to the recent killings recorded in parts of Benin City, the Special Security Squad, led by the Principal Security Officer to the Governor, Saturday Okoh, carried out coordinated raids in Amagba community in Oredo Local Government Area and Obagie Community in Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area.
During the operations, several suspected cultists were arrested. The Okaighele of Obazagbon, Innocent Okunozee, who is alleged to be a member of a secret confraternity, is currently in custody. Those directed to turn themselves in include the Okaigheles of Obagie, Ofumwengbe, and Ara Communities.
The squad disclosed that two suspects arrested during the Amagba raid confessed to belonging to a secret confraternity. Spokesperson of the squad, Eribo Enwanta, said investigations have linked some Okaigheles and five other suspects who fled during the operation to recent cult-related killings.
One of the arrested suspects admitted to being involved in internet fraud but denied participation in the recent killings in the state.
The state government has reiterated that the crackdown will continue until cultism and violent crimes are decisively addressed.
(Editor: Terverr Tyav)
