Edo State Special Task Force on Anti-Cultism on Wednesday condemned the ongoing killings by suspected rival cult groups in various parts of the state.
Briefing newsmen in Benin, the State Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Chris Nehikhare, warned cult groups to either leave the state or risk apprehension.
Nehikhare, also a taskforce member, expressed concern over the recent violence on Sunday, October 27, which led to multiple fatalities in affected areas.
He stated that violent clashes between rival cult groups in Benin were under investigation, with several arrests made, while efforts were on to catch the remaining suspects.
Nehikhare explained that preliminary investigations showed that the violence involved the Eiye and Vikings confraternities, who were reportedly clashing for dominance.
“Upon receiving intelligence reports, the Edo State Special Taskforce immediately intensified patrols and launched a manhunt for leaders of the identified cult groups.
“The swift, coordinated response by the taskforce contained the violence, preventing further bloodshed and averting an escalation of the crisis.
“Several arrests have been made, and efforts are ongoing to apprehend key actors and fleeing suspects,” Nehikhare said.
He added that patrols have been reinforced in known hotspots to prevent any resurgence of cult-related violence in the state.
Nehikhare assured Edo residents of their safety, promising that all perpetrators would be brought to justice to ensure peace was restored.
According to him, the taskforce’s proactive efforts have strong support from the Godwin Obaseki-led administration, focused on making Edo safe for all residents.(NAN)
