SECURITY operatives in Edo State have arrested 14 suspects in connection with a cult-related killing in Auchi, Etsako West Local Government Area, as authorities intensify efforts to curb criminal activities in the area.
The arrests followed a security operation carried out between Wednesday and Friday after a suspected cult attack at Jattu Junction reportedly claimed the life of a middle-aged man.
The incident had sparked panic among residents, commuters, and business owners in the community.
The operation was led by the Chief Security Officer and Principal Security Officer to Governor Monday Okpebholo in collaboration with other security agencies.
During the exercise, security personnel raided several locations believed to be criminal hideouts across Edo North Senatorial District.
As part of the crackdown, authorities demolished Abiodun Motor Park and a park operated by the Nigeria Union of Road Transport Workers at Jattu Junction.
Security operatives also sealed Triple J & J Hotel in Aviele after intelligence reports allegedly linked the facility to the planning of the killing.
According to a statement issued by Patrick Ebojele, Chief Press Secretary to the governor, investigations suggested that suspects met at the hotel before moving to Jattu Motor Park where the attack was carried out.
Additional raids were conducted in Igbira Camp, Warrake Road, Akpekpe, and other locations identified as criminal hideouts.
Security officials disclosed that a prime suspect, Anefi Kassim, was not found during the operation and remains at large.
Another suspect, Idris Mustapha, who is also reportedly linked to the Edo State Security Corps, is likewise being sought by authorities.
The spokesperson for the security squad, Eribo Ewanta, said the suspects currently in custody are providing useful information to investigators and pledged that all individuals connected to the crime would be apprehended.
He stated that the state government remains committed to tackling criminality and restoring peace across Edo State.
Ewanta also noted that the demolished parks were allegedly involved in unauthorised revenue collection, an activity banned by the state government.
Authorities have given the Auchi sector commander of the Edo State Security Corps 24 hours to produce the two wanted suspects, warning that they would be declared wanted if they fail to report to security agencies within the stipulated period.
Investigations into the killing and related activities are ongoing.
