Politics
11 Suspected Cultists Detained In Major Operation
11 Suspected Cultists Detained In Major Operation....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
The Edo State Special Task Force on Anti-Cultism announced on Thursday the arrest of 11 individuals linked to various cult groups across the state. The task force, comprising eight security agencies and four ministries, is determined to eliminate cult activities in the region…… CONTINUE READING
Chris Nehikhare, Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, revealed at a press conference that the suspects were apprehended through coordinated efforts across multiple locations in Edo State. He emphasized that no individual, regardless of their political, religious, or social standing, would be shielded from the law.
“The task force, established by Governor Obaseki’s administration, was created to combat the rising trend of cult-related violence, which has led to numerous deaths,” Nehikhare said. “Our mandate is clear: eradicate cultism with firm measures.”
Since its formation, the task force has been actively engaged in both educational outreach and tactical operations. Initial phases included community engagement to dissuade youth from joining cults. However, recent actions have involved significant arrests based on thorough intelligence gathering.
On August 7, 2024, three suspected cultists were detained within Auchi Polytechnic. Later, on August 10, 2024, operatives conducted a high-profile raid at a hotel in Upper Sakponba, Benin City, apprehending two suspects during a cult meeting. Additionally, another raid in the Ekosodin area of Ovia North East Local Government Area led to the arrest of a prominent cult leader.
A pre-dawn operation on August 11, 2024, resulted in the detention of five more high-ranking cult members, including a key figure and a butcher. The total number of suspects in custody has reached 11, with investigations continuing.
“This is just the start,” Nehikhare warned. “We have a comprehensive list of targets, and we are committed to seeing this through. No one is exempt from the law. We urge all cult members to abandon their affiliations or face severe consequences. Parents should be vigilant and guide their children away from such destructive paths.”
Governor Godwin Obaseki’s administration has pledged to rigorously enforce the new anti-cultism law, which includes stringent measures against notorious groups such as the Okaighele. “We will not rest until we have eradicated cultism from Edo State,” Nehikhare concluded.
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