Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
Security authorities in Uromi, Esan North‑East Local Government Area of Edo State, Nigeria, have announced a major law enforcement success with the arrest of four men suspected of involvement in cult‑related violence and the recovery of several firearms during a targeted police operation in the early hours of 24 March 2026. The development is seen as part of the Edo State Police Command’s intensified efforts to tackle cultism and violent crime that have long threatened community safety in the region.
According to a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer of the Edo State Command, ASP Eno Ikoedem, officers acted on credible intelligence to mount a well‑coordinated operation at about 2:00 a.m. on the said date. The swift raid resulted in the arrest of four individuals whom the police suspect are members of the Eiye Confraternity, a secret society that has been linked to violent and criminal activities across parts of southern Nigeria.
The men taken into custody are identified as Solomon Oboigbe, 27, of Ewoyi Quarters; Fidelis Omale, 26, of Atani; Julius Oseyomon, 64, of Atani; and Abraham Erumosele Momo, 54, of Eco Obedo. At the time of their arrest, police recovered four English‑made pump‑action shotguns, nine live cartridges, and three spent cartridges from their possession. Preliminary investigation suggests that the weapons were obtained and held unlawfully and may have been used in criminal activities within the local community.
The Commissioner of Police for Edo State, CP Monday Agbonika, commended the professionalism and dedication of the officers involved in the operation. He emphasised that intelligence‑led interventions such as this one are critical to dismantling networks that fuel cultism and violent crime. Agbonika reiterated the command’s commitment to reducing insecurity by ensuring that cult groups and other criminal elements are brought to justice.
Cultism in Nigeria has its roots in student confraternities that emerged decades ago but later evolved, in some cases, into underground organisations implicated in violent clashes and other crimes. The Supreme Eiye Confraternity, to which the suspects are believed to belong, is among such groups that have been associated with rivalry, intimidation, and other illicit activities beyond campus settings, often spilling over into wider communities.
In Uromi and neighbouring areas, random acts of violence and clashes allegedly involving cult groups have raised concerns among residents and local leaders. The presence of unregulated firearms has heightened these worries, prompting increased demand from community members for decisive action by security forces. The recent arrests and weapons recovery have been viewed locally as a reassuring sign that law enforcement is responding to these calls for improved security. One resident, speaking anonymously, described the development as a relief, saying that the ongoing presence of illegal arms had contributed to fear and instability in some neighbourhoods.
Following their arrest, the suspects were remanded in custody as police conducted further investigations to determine their involvement in cult‑related offences and other possible crimes. Investigators are also working to uncover any broader networks that may be supplying weapons or facilitating criminal activities in the area, part of a comprehensive strategy to root out organised violence.
After completing the initial investigation, the police arraigned the four suspects in court on charges likely to include unlawful possession of firearms and involvement in cultism. Prosecutors will present evidence before the judiciary, which will determine the legal consequences for the accused. Legal observers have noted that successful prosecution of cult‑related cases can serve as a deterrent, reinforcing that involvement in such organisations and illegal arm possession carries serious penalties under Nigerian law.
Security officials have urged residents to continue providing timely and credible information to the police when suspicious activities are observed, assuring the public that all reports are treated with confidentiality. Authorities emphasised that community cooperation is essential to sustaining effective crime prevention and response measures.
The arrests in Uromi follow other targeted operations in Edo State, where security forces have been actively engaging suspected cultists, armed robbers, kidnappers, and other criminal elements. Weapons and stolen property have been recovered in various operations, reflecting a broader crackdown aimed at making communities safer and more secure. This multifaceted approach aligns with state and national strategies to reduce violent crime, protect citizens, and uphold the rule of law.
Security analysts observing the situation have welcomed the arrest and arms seizure, noting that intelligence‑driven policing is crucial to curbing cult‑related violence. They also highlight the importance of complementary efforts such as youth engagement, employment opportunities, and education initiatives, which address some of the socio‑economic factors that can make young people vulnerable to recruitment by cult groups. By combining enforcement with preventive strategies, experts argue, authorities can better tackle both the symptoms and roots of organised violence.
For now, the Edo State Police Command’s message to the public is clear: cultism and violent crime will not be tolerated, and law enforcement will continue to take firm actions to ensure the safety and security of all residents. As the legal process unfolds and investigations continue, police maintain their focus on delivering justice and restoring peace to communities across the state.
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