By Rosemary Okoduwa
No fewer than 14 suspects have been arrested in connection with the recent cult-related killing in Auchi, Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State, following a coordinated security operation ordered by Governor Monday Okpebholo.
According to a statement signed by Dr. Patrick Ebojele, the Edo State Security Squad, operating under the code name “Operation Flush Out Kidnappers and Cultists,” carried out a series of raids across strategic locations in Edo North Senatorial District in a bid to apprehend those responsible for the killing and restore peace to the area.
The operation followed the fatal shooting of a middle-aged man at Abiodun Motor Park, Jattu Junction, an incident that triggered panic among residents, commuters, and business owners, who fled the scene for safety.
Acting on the directive of Governor Okpebholo, the Chief Security Officer (CSO) and Principal Security Officer (PSO) to the Governor, alongside other security agencies, launched an extensive crackdown on suspected criminal hideouts across the area.
During the operation, security operatives demolished the Abiodun Motor Park and the Nigeria Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) park at Jattu Junction, citing violations of the state’s ban on unauthorized revenue collection.
The squad also stormed Triple J & J Hotel in Aviele, where 14 suspects were arrested based on intelligence reports linking the facility to the planning of the attack. Preliminary investigations indicated that some of the suspects allegedly met at the hotel before proceeding to Jattu Junction to carry out the killing.
Following the arrests, the hotel was sealed off by security authorities.
The operation further extended to Igbira Camp, Warrake Road, Akpekpe, and other identified criminal hideouts in the district. Security operatives also visited the residence of a prime suspect, identified as Anefi Kassim, but he was not found at the location.
Investigations have reportedly linked Kassim to the Juris Confraternity, while another suspect, Idris Mustapha, who is also currently at large, is said to be affiliated with the ESSC group.
The security squad has directed the Auchi Sector Commander of the ESSC, under whose command both suspects allegedly operate, to produce them within 24 hours for questioning and prosecution.
Speaking on behalf of the security squad, spokesperson Eribo Ewanta said Governor Okpebholo had given a clear directive to security agencies to restore peace and ensure that all those connected to the killing are brought to justice.
“The suspects already arrested are providing useful information that will assist security agencies in tracking down other individuals involved in the crime, including the masterminds,” he said.
Ewanta reiterated the state government’s resolve to stamp out criminality, stressing that no part of Edo State would remain safe for kidnappers, cultists, or other criminal elements.
He also explained that the demolished motor parks were operating illegally and collecting revenues contrary to the governor’s directive banning unauthorized revenue collection across the state.
“The properties will be repurposed for projects that will benefit the people of Edo State. Governor Okpebholo remains committed to restoring order, promoting development, and ensuring the safety of lives and property,” he stated.
The security squad warned that should Anefi Kassim and Idris Mustapha fail to report within the stipulated period, they would be declared wanted and subjected to further law enforcement action.
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