3 arrested over cult killings in Edo


Three suspected cultists reportedly linked to last Friday's cult-related killings in Benin City have been apprehended in a combined operation by the Edo State Special Security Squad (ESSS) and state Police Command agents.

The accused were seized after coordinated operations in the Amagba and Obagie areas, where security personnel reportedly discovered fetish items, rifles, and ammunition at their homes. 

Those arrested were identified as Osazee Omoruyi, Innocent Okunozee, the Obagie community's Okiaghale (youth leader), and Anito Osahon.

According to security sources, Omoruyi and Okunozee allegedly admitted to being members of cults but denied involvement in the recent deaths. 

However, Osahon denied belonging to any cult group and taking part in the violence. Omoruyi and Osahon were arrested in a cottage in Amagba village, where two pump-action guns, a pistol, and ammo were allegedly discovered. 

In a separate operation, Okunozee was allegedly detained with a Toyota Highlander and a gun. 

Security officials have also issued a seven-day deadline for two other Okiaghales from the Ofunwegbe and Ara communities to surrender for questioning.

Eribo Ewanta, spokesperson for the ESSS, told journalists that the arrests were made after credible intelligence linked the accused to cult activity in the area. Ewanta noted that the squad has made tremendous headway in fulfilling its mandate to clear the state of criminal elements, particularly the cult organisations responsible for recent bloodshed.

He cautioned that community leaders suspected of harbouring cultists would not be immune.

"We have given the Okiaghales of Obagie, Ofunwegbe, and Ara villages a seven-day deadline to hand themselves over to the state administration or face arrest wherever they are. "The government is closer to them than they think," he claimed.

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