Police arrest seven suspected cultists, recover stolen six-month-old baby in Edo
Edo State Police Arrest Seven Suspected Cult Members, Recover Stolen Infant
The Edo State Police Command has apprehended seven individuals suspected of being involved in cult activities in Otuo and has successfully recovered a six-month-old baby who was allegedly stolen and transported to Imo State. The police also detained suspects linked to the sexual abuse and online exploitation of a young girl in Ekiadolor.
Police Public Relations Officer, Assistant Superintendent of Police Eno Ikoedem, made the announcements during a press briefing, representing Commissioner of Police Patrick Daaor. Ikoedem explained that these arrests and recoveries were part of a series of intelligence-led operations aimed at combating criminal activity and protecting the safety of residents throughout the state.
Ikoedem noted that a joint clearance operation targeting criminal hideouts in the forested areas of Edo North had recently concluded. The operation yielded positive outcomes, contributing to a peaceful environment in the affected communities, with no reported kidnapping incidents during that period.
The police spokesperson confirmed that the Gender and Family Unit played a crucial role in recovering the kidnapped infant and apprehending those involved. The child has since been reunited with their family.
In a separate ongoing initiative to mitigate cult-related violence, detectives from Otuo Division arrested seven suspected cult members. Additionally, several suspects were taken into custody for their part in stripping a young girl in the Ekiadolor region and distributing the material via social media.
Ikoedem stated that all suspects are currently in police custody as investigations proceed. She assured that individuals found guilty of any crimes would face prosecution in accordance with the law.
The police have also made an arrest in an unrelated case involving the alleged rape of a 70-year-old woman in Igueben, with a 37-year-old man in custody. Investigations into this incident are ongoing, and legal action will occur once the inquiry concludes.
Commissioner Daaor emphasized the importance of community involvement in security efforts, urging residents to share credible and timely information with law enforcement to support crime prevention measures. He further advised parents and youths to avoid associations with cults and criminal groups while cautioning the public against using social media to perpetrate violence or humiliation.
Daaor reiterated that all forms of sexual violence are criminal offenses and pledged to maintain the command’s commitment to ongoing intelligence-driven operations to combat crime in Edo State.
