Cult Crackdown: Security Outfits Raid Edo Hotel, Arrest 14 Over Auchi Killing

The Edo State Security Corps (ESSC), working in tandem with multiple security agencies, has launched a massive crackdown on cult-related activities in Edo North Senatorial District. The targeted operations have led to the arrest of 14 suspects and the demolition of two commercial motor parks used as criminal fronts.

​The security sweep follows a wave of tension that gripped Auchi last week after suspected cultists shot and killed a middle-aged man in broad daylight at the Abiodun Motor Park near Jattu Junction. The brazen murder sent residents, business owners, and commuters fleeing for safety, prompting immediate state intervention.

​Directives from the Executive

​Following explicit directives from Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, to eliminate criminal elements from the zone, a combined security squad led by the Governor’s Chief Security Officer and Principal Security Officer initiated a three-day raid spanning Wednesday to Friday.

​The operation systematically dismantled the Abiodun Motor Park and the local Nigeria Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) park at Jattu Junction. According to Patrick Ebojele, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, these facilities were not only flashpoints for violence but were also being used to run illicit revenue collection rings, violating an active state ban on unauthorized ticketing. State officials confirmed that the newly recovered land will be redeveloped for public infrastructure.

​Intelligence Leads to Hotel Seizure

​A pivotal breakthrough occurred at the Triple J & J Hotel in Aviele. Security intelligence revealed that the tragic Jattu Junction shooting was actively plotted within the hospitality venue. The squad raided the premises, arrested multiple individuals, and subsequently sealed off the property.

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​The tactical sweep also extended into known criminal hideouts across Igbira Camp, Warrake Road, and Akpekpe.

​Security Personnel Implicated

​The ongoing investigation has exposed internal security vulnerabilities, revealing that two members of the ESSC itself are implicated in the cult network.

​Security forces tracking the operation identified the prime suspect as Anefi Kassim, an alleged member of the Juris Confraternity residing at Igbira Camp. Kassim evaded initial arrest, alongside Idris Mustapha, an ESSC operative.

​Eribo Ewanta, spokesperson for the security squad, stated that the 14 detained individuals are currently providing actionable intelligence to help track down the masterminds. A strict 24-hour ultimatum has been issued to the ESSC Sector Commander in Auchi to produce both Kassim and Mustapha to face justice.