The Edo State Police Command has successfully disrupted a gathering of suspected cultists in the Ohonre community, Benin City, leading to the arrest of two individuals and the recovery of a firearm. The command's spokesperson, ASP Eno Ikoedem, made this known in a statement released on Wednesday, May 27, 2026.
Police Response to Distress Report
According to the Public Relations Officer, operatives from the Ugbowo Division responded to a distress call reporting that suspected cult members were converging in the area. The police team swiftly mobilized to the location and apprehended two suspects, while others managed to escape.
The arrested suspects have been identified as Victor Peter, aged 21, and Iyemoma Ogbewe, aged 35. During interrogation, both confessed to being members of the notorious Maphite cult group.
Details of the Operation
The statement read: "The Edo State Police Command has recorded another operational breakthrough following the swift disruption of a suspected cultists’ gathering in Ohonre Community, off Adolor College Road, Benin City. On 21st May 2026, at about 1900hrs, operatives attached to Ugbowo Division who were on surveillance patrol responded to a distress report concerning the movement and gathering of some suspected cult members within the community."
Acting promptly on the information, the police team mobilized to the location. Upon sighting the operatives, the suspects fled in an attempt to evade arrest. The operatives immediately gave them a hot chase, leading to the arrest of two suspects. A search conducted on the suspects led to the recovery of one cut-to-size gun believed to have been in their possession for unlawful purposes.
Investigation and Ongoing Efforts
Upon investigation, the suspects confessed to being members of the notorious Maphite cult group. Efforts are ongoing to identify and apprehend other fleeing gang members. The Commissioner of Police, CP Monday Agbonika, fdc, commended the swift response of the operatives and reiterated the Command’s resolve to deny criminal elements any opportunity within Edo State.
He further urged residents to continue providing timely and credible information to the Police, assuring that all reports would receive prompt attention.
