Police arrest four suspected cultists, recover firearms in Edo raid

The Edo State Police Command has arrested four suspected cultists and recovered firearms during a coordinated operation in Uromi, Esan North-East Local Government Area of the state.

The arrests were made in the early hours of March 24, 2026, following actionable intelligence, according to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikedem.

Those arrested were identified as Solomon Oboigbe, 27, of Ewoyi Quarters; Fidelis Omale, 26, of Atani; Julius Oseyomon, 64, also of Atani; and Abraham Erumosele Momo, 54, of Eco Obedo, all in Uromi.

During the operation, police operatives recovered four pump-action guns, nine live cartridges and three expended cartridges from the suspects.

Preliminary investigations indicated that the suspects are members of the Eiye Confraternity and that the firearms in their possession were illegally acquired.

The Commissioner of Police in the state, Monday Agbonika, commended the operatives for what he described as professionalism and swift response, noting that the command would sustain its ongoing crackdown on cult-related activities and the proliferation of illegal weapons.

“The Command remains resolute in its efforts to rid the state of cultism and other violent crimes,” the police chief said, reaffirming the commitment to enhanced security operations.

The suspects have since been arraigned in court following the conclusion of preliminary investigations.

The command also called on residents to continue providing timely and credible information to support ongoing security efforts, assuring that all reports would be treated with confidentiality.

Police authorities reiterated their commitment to safeguarding lives and property across Edo State.