BENIN CITY – The Edo State Government is taking strong measures to eradicate unlawful societies, cultism, and related criminal activities in the state, as the State Police Command reports the arrest of 124 suspected cultists across the region.
In a press conference held in Benin City on Thursday, the Edo Police Commissioner, Muhammad Dankwara, revealed that significant progress has been made in combating cult-related violence. Out of the 124 suspects apprehended, 97 have already been charged and will face trial, 13 have been cleared and released, while the remaining 14 are still under investigation, primarily for murder and other cult activities.
Commissioner Dankwara emphasized that the police force is working closely with the state government to curb the alarming rate of cult-related killings and other criminal activities in Edo State. He highlighted a recent operation carried out on July 13, 2023, where a total of 53 male suspects were arrested in various locations across the city, thanks to credible information and the collaboration of the Edo State Security Network.
During the press briefing, Commissioner Dankwara issued a stern warning to members of secret cult groups involved in violence, urging them to cease their deadly activities. He also cautioned state and non-state actors and sponsors providing financial or logistical support to cult confraternities to refrain from such actions. Those who fail to comply with this warning will face arrest and prosecution, with their properties sealed under the law.
The Edo Police Commissioner assured the public that efforts to combat cultism and other heinous crimes in the state are ongoing and will be sustained. He called for the cooperation and support of all residents in the fight against cultism.
So far, the police have recovered three locally made single-barrel guns and two cartridges during their operations against the cultists.
The state government and law enforcement authorities are determined to bring an end to the menace of cultism, which has claimed numerous lives and disrupted peace in Edo State. With the continued collaboration between the police and the government, and with the active involvement of the public, it is hoped that the security situation in the state will improve, and the perpetrators of these crimes will be brought to justice.
