Operatives of the Edo State Security Corps (ESSC) have arrested 14 suspects linked to a recent cult-related killing in Auchi, Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State, in a major crackdown on criminal activities in the region.
The arrests followed heightened tension last week at Abiodun Motor Park, Jattu Junction, where a middle-aged man was reportedly shot dead by suspected cultists, causing panic among residents, commuters, and business owners.
Acting on intelligence, the Chief Security Officer and Principal Security Officer to Governor Monday Okpebholo led a joint security operation across Edo North Senatorial District between Wednesday and Friday.
The coordinated raids targeted known criminal hideouts and hotspots.
During the operation, security agents stormed Triple J & J Hotel in Aviele, believed to be a planning ground for the attack. Several suspects were apprehended at the location, after which the facility was sealed by authorities.
Further operations extended to areas including Igbira Camp, Warrake Road, and Akpekpe, where more arrests were made.
According to preliminary investigations, the suspects allegedly convened at the hotel before moving to Jattu Motor Park to carry out the killing.
Authorities identified the prime suspect as Anefi Kassim, said to be a member of a notorious confraternity, who remains at large. Another suspect, Idris Mustapha, also linked to the case, is reportedly an ESSC member and is currently on the run.
Both individuals have been given a 24-hour ultimatum to report to the Area Command in Auchi or risk being declared wanted.
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In a decisive move, the security team also demolished Abiodun Motor Park and a nearby transport union park at Jattu Junction, citing ongoing illegal revenue collection in defiance of the state government’s ban.
Speaking on the development, the spokesperson for the security squad, Eribo Ewanta, reaffirmed the state government’s zero-tolerance stance on criminality.
“We have arrested 14 suspects connected to the killing, and they are already providing useful intelligence that will aid in apprehending others, including the mastermind,” he said.
He added that Governor Okpebholo remains committed to restoring peace and ensuring that criminal elements no longer find safe haven in Edo State.
The security corps has also directed the Auchi sector commander of the ESSC to produce the fleeing suspects within the stipulated timeframe or face further consequences.
Investigations are ongoing as authorities intensify efforts to dismantle cult networks and restore calm in the affected communities.
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