Edo cult killing arrests rise to 14 as security agencies intensify raids and pursue key suspects after a deadly attack in Auchi

The Edo State Security Corps (ESSC), acting alongside other security agencies under directives from Governor Monday Okpebholo, has arrested 14 suspects in connection with a fatal cult-related killing in Auchi, Etsako West Local Government Area, as authorities intensify efforts to restore peace across Edo North Senatorial District.

Also read: Osun Police Arrest 8 Suspected Cultists in Major Crackdown

The Edo Cult Killing Arrests followed heightened tension at Abiodun Motor Park in Jattu Junction, where a middle-aged man was shot dead by suspected cultists, triggering panic among residents, commuters and business owners.

In response to the incident, the Chief Security Officer and Principal Security Officer to Governor Okpebholo led a coordinated operation between Wednesday and Friday, targeting criminal hideouts and locations believed to be linked to cult activities.

According to a statement issued on Sunday by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Patrick Ebojele, security operatives carried out raids in several locations, including Triple J & J Hotel in Aviele, Igbira Camp along Warrake Road, Akpekpe and other identified hotspots across the district.

Investigators believe the killing was allegedly planned at the hotel before suspects moved to Jattu Junction to carry out the attack. Following the arrests, authorities sealed the hotel as part of ongoing investigations.

The operation also led to the demolition of Abiodun Motor Park and a park operated by the Nigeria Union of Road Transport Workers at Jattu Junction.

Officials said the facilities were operating contrary to the state government’s directive banning unauthorised revenue collection.

Security agencies disclosed that two additional suspects remain at large. The individuals, identified as Anefi Kassim and Idris Mustapha, are alleged to have links to the crime and have been ordered to report to the Area Command in Auchi within 24 hours.

According to preliminary investigations, Kassim is suspected to be a member of the Juris Confraternity, while Mustapha is reportedly affiliated with the ESSC.

Acting on intelligence reports, security operatives raided Igbira Camp, where Kassim was said to reside. However, the suspect was not found during the operation.

Speaking on the development, the spokesperson for the security squad, Eribo Ewanta, said the arrests reflected the state government’s determination to confront criminal activities decisively.

“We have arrested 14 suspects connected to the killing, and they are helping security agencies with useful information that will help in the arrest of all others at large, including the mastermind of the killing,” Ewanta said.

“Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration will not allow any form of criminality in Edo State, as criminals will no longer be safe operating in the state.”

Ewanta also explained the rationale behind the demolition of the motor parks, stating that investigations revealed continued collection of unauthorised levies despite a statewide ban imposed by the government.

“The parks at Jattu Junction, where the young man was killed, have been demolished because they are operating and collecting revenue, which has been banned by the Okpebholo-led administration,” he said.

He added that the land would be repurposed for public development projects intended to benefit residents.

The spokesperson further disclosed that security agencies had given the Auchi sector commander of the ESSC a 24-hour ultimatum to produce Kassim and Mustapha for questioning.

“We are giving the sector commander of ESSC, Auchi, 24 hours to produce Anefi Kassim and Idris Mustapha, who are key suspects in the Auchi killing. Failure to do that, they will be declared wanted,” Ewanta stated.

The latest Edo Cult Killing Arrests come amid ongoing efforts by the state government to curb cult violence and strengthen security across communities that have experienced recurring clashes involving rival groups.

Also read: Anambra Police Conduct Shocking Cult Arrests Raid

Authorities say investigations remain active, with additional arrests expected as security agencies work to identify and apprehend all individuals connected to the attack.