Edo Police to Prosecute Suspected Cultists in Auchi Killings

The Edo State Police Command has announced that it will prosecute suspected cultists arrested in connection with the murder of Braimoh Fulani, who was killed in the presence of his daughter in the South Ibie area of the state. The police spokesperson, Chidi Nwabuzor, disclosed that the arrests were made following a series of attacks between the Aye and Eiye confraternities in Auchi, Edo State, between April 18 and April 23, 2024, which resulted in the deaths of three people - Umoru, Emmanuel Odiase, and Braimoh Fulani.

On April 18, one Umoru was attacked and shot dead by members of the Aye Cult group at the Campus gate in Auchi. On April 22, Emmanuel Odiase, a member of the Aye cult group, was killed in Auchi by members of the Eiye cult group in the presence of his daughter. On April 23, Braimoh Fulani, a 43-year-old, was killed in his provision shop at the campus area in Auchi by members of the Aye cult group.

The police, in collaboration with the vigilante group, arrested seven cultists and recovered their weapons. "The police operatives, in collaboration with the vigilante group, chased and arrested the suspects, recovering their weapons," stated Nwabuzor. The police have recovered arms, cartridges, and other dangerous items from the suspects, and they will be charged to court soon.

Why this matters: The rise in cult-related violence and killings in Edo State has become a growing concern for residents and authorities. The police's commitment to prosecuting the suspected cultists sends a strong message that such criminal activities will not be tolerated and that perpetrators will face the full weight of the law. This is an essential step in curbing the menace of cultism and ensuring the safety and security of the community.

The Edo State Police Command is currently investigating the matter and will prosecute the suspects upon the conclusion of the investigation. Nwabuzor assured the public that the police are committed to bringing the perpetrators to justice and maintaining law and order in the state. He urged members of the public to provide any useful information that could assist in the investigation and to report any suspicious activities to the police.

Key Takeaways

• Edo police to prosecute suspected cultists for 3 murders in Auchi
• Killings occurred between rival Aye and Eiye cult groups in April 2024
• Police arrested 7 cultists and recovered weapons after collaborating with vigilantes
• Cult violence is a growing concern in Edo, police vow to curb the menace
• Police urge public to provide information to aid investigation and maintain order