Law enforcement detains four alleged cult members, seizes guns in Edo

Edo State Police Command operatives have apprehended four individuals suspected of cultism and seized firearms in Uromi, located in Edo Central, as part of their ongoing efforts to combat crime in the region.

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This development was disclosed in a statement issued by Police Public Relations Officer Eno Ikoedem on Wednesday, highlighting the command's progress in tackling cultism and violent crimes.

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The statement outlined the details of the operation, which took place on March 24, 2026, at approximately 02:00hrs, when police operatives acted on credible intelligence to carry out a coordinated operation resulting in the arrest of four suspects.

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The suspects, who have been identified, include 27-year-old Solomon Oboigbe from Ewoyi Quarters, Uromi, 26-year-old Fidelis Omale from Atani, Uromi, 64-year-old Julius Oseyomon from Atani, Uromi, and 54-year-old Abraham Erumosele Momo from Eco Obedo, Uromi.

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During the operation, police recovered four English pump-action guns, nine live cartridges, and three expended cartridges from the suspects, with preliminary investigations indicating that the firearms were obtained through illegal means.

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Ikoedem revealed that the suspects are believed to be members of the Eiye Confraternity, with the Police Commissioner, Monday Agbonika, commending the operatives for their professionalism and prompt response to the situation.

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Agbonika reiterated the command's commitment to sustaining its crackdown on cultism and other criminal activities, as well as its efforts to mop up firearms across the state, ensuring the safety and security of residents.

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The suspects will be arraigned in court once investigations are complete, with the command urging the public to continue providing timely and credible information to support their efforts.

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The police assured that all reports would be treated with utmost confidentiality, while also highlighting their commitment to maintaining safety and security in the region.

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In recent times, the command has arrested and prosecuted several suspected cultists, in line with the state government's zero-tolerance policy on cult-related activities, which has also seen the review of the anti-cultism law to incorporate stiffer punishment for offenders.

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The state government has also taken steps to demolish properties used for cult activities, as part of its efforts to combat cultism and associated crimes in the region.