The Edo State Special Security Squad has arrested four suspected cultists during a raid on their hideout in Egbaen Community, Ovia North East Local Council of the state.

The operation, carried out in collaboration with other security agencies, led to the recovery of several weapons allegedly linked to cult activities.

A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, Dr Patrick Ebojele, said the operation was led by the governor’s Principal Security Officer, Saturday Okoh, who, alongside other security personnel, stormed the hideout at about 6:00 a.m.

According to the statement, security operatives recovered four locally made pistols, a cut-to-size gun, one Beretta pistol and a machete from the hideout.

The statement added that although the suspects denied ownership of the weapons, they admitted being members of the Aiye Confraternity.

Commenting on the operation, the coordinator of the squad, Noah Idemudia, commended members of the public for providing credible intelligence that has contributed to the squad’s operational successes.

He appealed for continued public support, saying timely information remained critical to combating crime in the state.

“In the early hours of Sunday, we received intelligence that some members of the group planned to carry out an initiation in Egbaen Community, which could have led to other criminal activities capable of causing a breakdown of law and order.

“We responded promptly, moved into the community and successfully apprehended four suspects while recovering dangerous weapons.

“We thank the general public and urge them to continue providing useful information, as it has greatly assisted the squad in recording several successes.

We will continue to do our best to ensure Edo State remains safe for all residents,” he said.