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The Edo State Special Security Squad has arrested 12 suspected cultists following a series of coordinated raids across Benin City after the recent killing of a young man near the University of Benin gate. Authorities also sealed two apartments allegedly used for cult initiation activities during the operation. 
According to the squad’s spokesperson, Noah Idemudia, the raids were carried out in several identified hotspots, including Ekosodin, Isihor, Old Road off S&T Barracks, Airport Road, 19th Street Ugbowo, Ogba-Evbuodia, and Evbuomore Quarters. The operation was led by top security officials attached to Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration as part of the state government’s intensified crackdown on cult-related violence. 
Idemudia alleged that some community youth leaders, popularly known as Okaigheles, were aiding violent crimes and the circulation of illegal weapons within parts of Edo State. He warned that security agencies were closely monitoring individuals suspected of supporting cult groups and criminal gangs responsible for recurring killings and unrest in the state. 
The arrests come amid growing anti-cultism operations by the Edo State Government, which recently demolished buildings linked to suspected cult groups and declared several suspects wanted in connection with cult clashes and killings across Benin City. Authorities say the ongoing operations are aimed at dismantling criminal networks and restoring security in affected communities. 
