Over 20 arrested as Edo Special Security Squad launches crackdown on kidnappers, cultists, others

The newly inaugurated Edo State Special Security Squad Against Cultism and Kidnapping has made a strong debut by arresting over 20 suspects in a sweeping raid across major criminal hotspots in Benin City.

The coordinated operation, which commenced on Tuesday, targeted notorious areas such as Isiohor, Iguosa, Oluku, and Ibiwe/Lagos Street, among others.

The security team recovered various incriminating items including drugs, dangerous weapons, and other materials linked to criminal activity.

The multi-agency squad is comprised of operatives from the Military, Nigerian Police Force, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), vigilante groups, hunters, and repentant cultists, alongside other critical community stakeholders.

Speaking after the successful operation, John Adewale Eseikhaigbe, a member of the squad, praised Governor Monday Okpebholo for initiating the special security outfit in response to escalating violence and insecurity in the state.

“Thanks to the Governor for setting up the Squad. He is a man committed to peace and determined to stop the killings and criminality in Edo State,” Eseikhaigbe said.

He explained that the raid was prompted by recent killings and rising incidents of cultism, kidnapping, and drug trafficking across the state. The Governor had issued a marching order to security forces to clean up the streets and restore public confidence.

“We searched the length and breadth of Benin City and made several arrests. We found hard drugs, weapons, and other implicating items. This is not a one-time effort — the operation has come to stay,” he added.

The operation also led to the sealing of a hotel located in Isiohor, believed to be a hideout for suspected cultists, drug peddlers, and other criminals.

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Eribo Emwanta, another member of the committee, clarified that the move was not aimed at witch-hunting anyone but to investigate the facility and its ownership.

“The hotel was shut down to invite the owner to provide explanations. The place had become a criminal hideout and we’re taking decisive action to keep the state safe,” he explained.

Amielemen Idemudia Noah, another squad member, expressed appreciation to the Governor for giving them the mandate to act swiftly and decisively against criminal elements tarnishing Edo State’s reputation.

“The Governor is clearly pained by the recent killings and has taken bold steps to end it. We are committed to cleaning up the state and creating a safe environment for all residents and investors,” he said.

The Special Squad’s mandate goes beyond tackling cultism. It also includes confronting armed robbery, kidnapping, drug trafficking, and related crimes that have long plagued Edo State.

“These crimes are often interrelated,” said Eseikhaigbe. “To keep Edo safe, we must rid the streets of all social vices. The fight is holistic.”

The Edo State Government has reiterated its determination to provide full support to the squad as part of broader efforts to restore peace and ensure safety in all parts of the state. With Tuesday’s arrests marking a major breakthrough, residents are hopeful that the momentum will continue.