Edo Govt Steps Up Crackdown On Cultists, Kidnappers In Benin City
In a renewed effort to rid Edo State of violent crimes, the Special Security Squad set up by Governor Monday Okpebholo has continued its clampdown on criminal hideouts, making more arrests across Benin City.
The joint task force, made up of the military, police, NSCDC, vigilantes, hunters, and even repentant cultists stormed several notorious areas on Wednesday, 16th July 2025, including Obe Community on Sapele Road, Iyowa, Evbonika, and Azuwa village in Ovia North East LGA.
Acting on intelligence reports, the squad raided a suspected cultists’ hideout in Azuwa village and made multiple arrests.
At Evbonika, they searched a building believed to serve as a cult meeting point, questioning the owner and sending a strong message to criminal elements.
In another operation at a hotel along Power Line, off First Ugbor in the GRA, suspects were apprehended and incriminating materials recovered.
Governor Okpebholo reaffirmed his administration’s zero-tolerance stance towards violent crime, stressing that cultists and kidnappers will not be allowed to endanger lives or derail the state’s development.
“This operation is not a political statement. It is backed by real action,” the Governor said, adding that accountability, professionalism, and community involvement remain the pillars of the squad’s operations.
With these ongoing efforts, the government hopes to restore peace and make Edo State safer for residents, businesses, and investors alike.
Follow the Savinews Africa channel on WhatsApp: [https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VawgaEL5vKA9Y5XTFg0n]
