The Edo State government’s Special Security Squad, under the banner of “Operation Flush Out,” has arrested 31 suspects in connection with alleged cult activities and kidnapping reported in Uromi, the administrative center of Esan North-East Local Government Area.
The disclosure came via a statement from Fred Itua, the Chief Press Secretary to Gov. Monday Okpebholo, issued on Tuesday in Benin.
The operation is part of the administration’s broader strategy to curb cult-related violence and other criminal offenses that threaten public safety across the state. It followed a violent clash between rival cult groups in Uromi on November 13, which left at least one person hospitalized with serious injuries, underscoring the urgency of proactive security measures in the area.
As part of the crackdown, the Special Security Squad conducted targeted raids on multiple known hideouts in Uromi, including Osigbemhe Lane, Okhenlen-Uromi; Arue Street, Arue Street; and the Ewoyi axis of Uromi. The concerted raids yielded a range of incriminating items believed to be associated with illicit activities, such as battle axes, cult insignia, charms, hard drugs, and other dangerous materials.
In confirming the arrests, Itua indicated that the authorities are still pursuing a manhunt for additional suspects who may have escaped during the raids. To accelerate the dismantling of criminal networks, the squad has issued a seven-day ultimatum for those at large to surrender to the police.
All 31 apprehended individuals were promptly handed over to the Nigeria Police Force, Area Command Headquarters in Uromi, for further interrogation and processing in line with due legal procedure. The transfer reinforces the collaboration between security agencies in Edo State and their commitment to addressing violent criminal enterprises that destabilize communities.
