Police arrest two suspected cultists in Edo

Operatives of the Edo State Police Command have apprehended two individuals suspected of cultism in Ohonre Community, Benin City. The arrests followed a swift response to a distress report concerning the movement and gathering of suspected cult members in the area.

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The Edo State Police Command has recorded another operational breakthrough following the swift disruption of a suspected cultists’ gathering in Ohonre Community, off Adolor College Road, Benin City.

The incident occurred on May 21, 2026, when police surveillance operatives attached to the Ugbowo Division were alerted to the gathering. Upon the police team's arrival, the suspects attempted to evade arrest but were pursued and apprehended. The two individuals have been identified as Victor Peter, 21, and Iyemoma Ogbewe, 35.

A search of the suspects resulted in the recovery of a cut-to-size gun, believed to have been in their possession for illegal activities. During preliminary investigations, both Peter and Ogbewe confessed to being members of the notorious Maphite cult group. The police are currently intensifying efforts to locate and arrest other members of the gang who managed to escape.

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On sighting the operatives, the suspects fled in an attempt to evade arrest. The operatives immediately gave them a hot chase, leading to the arrest of two suspects identified as Victor Peter ‘M’, 21 years and Iyemoma Ogbewe ‘M’, 35 years.

Edo State Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, commended the operatives for their prompt action. He reaffirmed the command's commitment to preventing criminal activities within the state and urged residents to continue providing credible information to the police, assuring them of prompt attention to all reports.

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Upon investigation, the suspects confessed to being members of the notorious Maphite cult group. Efforts are ongoing to identify and apprehend other fleeing gang members.