… Arrest 12 suspects in connection with cultism
By Simeon OSAJIE
The Edo State Security Squad codenamed “Operation flush out Kidnappers and Cultists” have warned youths and members of Uzebu and Iyanomo Communities in Oredo and Ikpoba-Okah local government areas of the State over the recent leadership crisis and cult related activities.
The Chief Security Officer (CSO) and the Principal Security Officer (PSO) to the Governors led a team of security personnel on a raid of criminal hideout across the two local government areas.
The team raided a hideout known for drugs and cultism at Uzebu Quarters at Asoro Hill along Ekenwan road in Oredo local government area of the State where 12 suspects were arrested in connection with cultism and cult related activities.
Speaking to journalists after the operation, the Publicity Secretary of the Squad George Aburime said the Governor Monday Okpebholo led administration will not tolerate any form of criminality or breakdown of law and order in the State.
“12 persons have been arrested at Uzebu Community at Asoro Hill in connection with cultism and cult related activities and they have been handed over to the Police and after proper investigation they will be charged to Court for prosecution”.
Aburime said the team was also in the Iyanomo Community off Sapele road in Ikpoba-Okah local government areas of Edo State where community members are causing trouble over leadership positions.
“We are in the Community to preach peace and not to intimidate anyone, the team is urging the warring faction to embrace peace and live in unity.
“We appeal to Communities never to aid criminality as the Okpebholo led administration is doing a lot to ensure a peaceful state and your community should not be the ones to encourage breakdown of law and order or criminality”.
Aburime said the Iyanomo community is having leadership tussle on who becomes the Odionwere or Okaighele and warned that those causing trouble in the community should stop forthwith or face the consequences of their actions.
“Anyone having issues or disputes should kindly seek redress from the Palace of the Oba of Benin or the Court of law rather than creating problems in the Community. Anyone trying to cause trouble or a breakdown of peace will be dealt with according to the law”.