Edo Government Demolishes Building Linked to Cult Killings, Arrests Two Suspects

The Edo State Government has demolished a building in Amagba, Oredo Local Government Area, believed to be linked to recent cult-related killings in the state. The action follows the arrest of two suspected members of the Aye confraternity.

Dr Patrick Ebojele, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Godwin Obaseki, confirmed the operation in a statement on Thursday in Benin City, noting that a total of seven individuals are allegedly linked to the cult killings, with five still at large.

Operation Flush Out Cultists and Kidnappers

The demolition was carried out by the Special Security Squad, codenamed “Operation Flush Out Cultists and Kidnappers in Edo”, under the supervision of the governor’s principal security officer.

Dr Ebojele emphasized that Edo’s anti-cultism laws would be enforced strictly, warning that no one is above the law.

“Gov Okpebholo has given that mandate and it must be followed thoroughly, no matter who is involved. No one is above the law. Those who escaped arrest have been declared wanted,” he said.

Additional Security Measures

The Special Security Squad also sealed off a residence in Upper Uwa, Benin, linked to Etiosa Akhiombare Joshua, also known as Baba Josh. Joshua is a suspected member of the Maphite Confraternity and is accused of masterminding and financing a recent killing at Wire Road.

The government’s actions underscore its commitment to ending cultism and violent criminal activities in Edo State, sending a clear message that perpetrators will face the full weight of the law.