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…Property linked to cult killings demolished in Amagba; Interpol alerted as security dragnet widens
Edo State Government’s renewed offensive against cultism has extended beyond Nigeria’s borders, with a Canada-based suspect in last week’s deadly cult violence in Benin City, Edo State capital, declared wanted and placed on an international watchlist.
This development came as security operatives, on Thursday, demolished a property allegedly used as a hideout by cult members in Amagba community, Benin City, Edo State capital.
Acting on intelligence reports, operatives also sealed off the last known residence of Etiosa Akhiombare Joshua, popularly known as Baba Josh, who authorities described as an alleged financier and mastermind of the recent Wire Road killings.
Officials disclosed that the suspect, who is alleged to be a member of Maphite Confraternity, is believed to have relocated to Canada, prompting the Edo State Government to formally involve Interpol to track and repatriate him to face prosecution.
Briefing journalists during the operation, spokesperson of the Special Security Squad, Mr. Eribo Enwanta, said the state would pursue all suspects, irrespective of their location.
According to him, intelligence findings allegedly linked Joshua to the provision of funds and weapons used in the attack, including the placement of a ₦1 million bounty on the victim.
“There is no hiding place for anyone who sheds blood in this state. All properties linked to the suspect will remain sealed until he presents himself.
“From family residences to other identified locations, the law will take its full course”, Enwanta declared.
Earlier, operatives under Operation Flush Out Cultists and Kidnappers in Edo State pulled down a building in Amagba where two suspected cultists were arrested, while five others reportedly escaped.
Authorities said the demolished structure was directly connected to recent cult-related killings that have unsettled parts of the state.
Enwanta stressed that enforcement of the state’s anti-cultism law would be total and uncompromising, noting that several suspects earlier declared wanted were still at large.
“No one is above the law. Those who escaped are still wanted and will be brought to justice, especially those fingered in multiple killings”, he added
On the matter of traditional authorities summoned for questioning, the squad confirmed that two of the three invited Okiagheles had reported and were currently undergoing profiling.
However, the Okiaghele of Obagie, Ken Dada, was warned to comply with a seven-day ultimatum or risk being declared wanted.
Responding to alleged social media comments attributed to the Obagie Okiaghele, Enwanta cautioned against defiance of lawful authority.
“There is law in Edo State. When the ultimatum expires, we will act,” he warned.
The government reiterated that the crackdown was being carried out under a clear mandate from Governor Monday Okpebholo to end cult violence in Edo State.
Officials assured residents that coordination within the Office of the Principal Security Officer remained strong, expressing confidence that peace and accountability would be restored.
As demolitions, seal-offs and the international manhunt continue, authorities insist the message is unmistakable: whether hiding within Edo State or abroad, suspects linked to cult killings will be pursued until justice is served.
