The Edo State Government has demolished a building in Amagba, Oredo Local Government Area, where two members of the Aye confraternity were arrested in connection with recent cult-related killings.
This was disclosed in a statement issued on Thursday in Benin by Dr. Patrick Ebojele, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo.
According to Ebojele, seven individuals have been allegedly linked to the recent cult killings in the state. Two suspected members of the Aye cult group have been arrested, while five others remain at large.
He said the demolition was carried out by the Special Security Squad codenamed “Operation Flush Out Cultists and Kidnappers in Edo,” led by the governor’s principal security officer.
Ebojele stated that the state’s anti-cultism law would be fully enforced to ensure cult-related activities are eradicated.
“Gov. Okpebholo has given that mandate and it must be followed thoroughly, no matter who is involved. No one is above the law. Those who escaped arrest have been declared wanted,” he said.
The Special Security Squad also sealed off a residence in the Upper Uwa area of Benin, identified as the last known address of Etiosa Akhiombare Joshua, also known as Baba Josh.
Joshua is alleged to be a member of the Maphite Confraternity and is suspected to be the mastermind and financier of last week’s killing at Wire Road, according to the statement.