The Edo State Special Security Squad, operating under the code name “Operation Flush Out Kidnapping and Cultism”, has arrested 31 suspects and issued a seven-day ultimatum to fleeing suspects following coordinated raids across Uromi in Esan North-East Local Government Area.
Naijaonpoint reports that the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, Fred Itua, in a statement on Wednesday, disclosed that the arrests are linked to a violent clash between rival cult groups on Thursday, 13 November 2025, which left one individual hospitalised with severe injuries.
Itua stated that the operation is part of the State Government’s intensified efforts to curb cult-related violence and rising criminal activities.
The statement reads, “Acting on intelligence, the Squad conducted simultaneous raids on Sunday, 16 November 2025, targeting known hideouts in Osigbemhe Lane, Okhenlen-Uromi; Arue Street, Ivue-Uromi; and the Ewoyi axis of Uromi.
“Leading the operation were the Chief Security Officer and Principal Security Officer to Governor Monday Okpebholo, supported by the Divisional Police Officer of Uromi, local vigilante teams, and personnel of the Nigerian Army.
“The joint forces stormed residential locations occupied by members of the Black Axe and Eiye confraternities.
“Incriminating items, including battle axes, cult insignia, charms, drugs and other dangerous materials were recovered, further linking the suspects to the recent fracas.
“Authorities have launched a manhunt for additional members believed to have fled during the raids.”
Speaking after the operation, Squad Coordinator, Idemudia Noah, confirmed that the crackdown followed credible intelligence implicating several individuals in the clash, which stemmed from a dispute over a fraudulent financial transaction.
He disclosed that two alleged ringleaders, identified as Gift and Ache, remain at large, and their properties have been sealed pending further investigations.
Noah detailed that the first major raid occurred at an apartment at Osigbemhe Lane associated with a Black Axe member, and the second was at Arue Street.
According to him, all suspects apprehended have been handed over to the Nigeria police Force Area Command Headquarters, Uromi, for processing and interrogation.
Noah reaffirmed the Government’s zero-tolerance stance on cultism, assuring that every arrested individual will be thoroughly investigated and prosecuted.
He said, “Edo State will not serve as a haven for criminals. We are committed to safeguarding our communities and restoring public confidence.”
Meanwhile, one of the suspects, Nathaniel Kingsley, arrested at Ewoyi-Uromi, has denied involvement in cultism despite the recovery of a battle axe, an emblem of the Black Axe confraternity, from his residence.
The suspect admitted only to participating in internet fraud.
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