Edo Police Arrest 12 Suspected Cultists in Auchi

On May 7, 2026, at 6:00 PM, the Edo State Police Command, in collaboration with the Edo State Security Corps, arrested 12 suspected cultists in the Amaz Grace Estate, Elel Community, Uzairu, Auchi, Edo North. The arrests followed a swift response to credible intelligence regarding an impending attack by the suspects, who were allegedly mobilizing to confront a rival group.

The arrested individuals include Abiola Anabgaifo (33 years), Idogo Joshua (28 years), Oseni Sani (22 years), Aminu Abubakar (19 years), Iyamah Preciou (29 years), Usman Rapheal (29 years), Ogen Jude (31 years), Ibrahim Akeem (27 years), Tund Bright (20 years), Jude Edeh (21 years), Godwin Edeh (19 years), and Aigbona Clifford (20 years). Preliminary investigations revealed that seven of the suspects confessed to being members of the AY Vike confraternity.

The police recovered a grey Mercedes Benz Jeep, registered number GWA 471 DS, allegedly belonging to one Balogun Israel. The Commissioner of Police, Agbonika, commended the professional response of the officers and emphasized the command's commitment to combating cultism and violent crime in the state.

The suspects have been transferred to the anti-cultism unit for prosecution upon the conclusion of investigations.