Police, ESSC nab 12 suspected cultists in Edo

A combined team of operatives of the Edo State Police Command and the State Security Corps, ESSC, have arrested no fewer than 12 suspected cultists after allegedly mobilising from Okpella in Etsako East Local Government Area of the State to launch attacks on perceived rivals.

The Public Relations Officer of the Edo State Police Command, ASP Eno Ikoedem disclosed this on Monday, May 11, 2026, in a statement made available to newsmen in Benin City.

Ikoedem said the suspects were arrested at Amazing Grace Estate, Elele community, Uzairue in Etsako West Local Government Area following a swift response to credible intelligence.


She gave the names of the suspects as Abiola Anabgaifo, Idogo Joshua, Oseni Sani, Aminu Abubakar, Iyamah Precious, Usman Rapheal, Ogene Jude, Ibrahim Aheem, Tunde Bright, Jude Edeh, Godwin Edeh, and Aigbona Clifford.

She said the all-male suspects were arrested on May 7, 2026, at about 6pm.

The Command’s spokesperson alleged that during preliminary investigations, seven of the suspects confessed to being members of Aye and Vikings confraternities.

She said items recovered from the suspects are a grey Mercedes-Benz Jeep with registration number GWA 471 DS allegedly belonging to one Balogun Isreal, who is currently at large.

She said all the suspects have been transferred to the Anti-Cultism unit and will be prosecuted upon the conclusion of the investigation

Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police in charge of the Command Monday Agbonika has commended the swift response and professionalism of the Officers.

Agbonika assured that the Command will sustain its crackdown on cultism and violent crimes across the State.

He, however, warned all criminal elements to either repent or leave the State, stressing that the Command remains fully prepared to deal decisively with anyone threatening the peace and security of residents.