The Edo State Government has stepped up its crackdown on cultism and violent gangs, sealing shrines and declaring alleged leaders wanted after bloody clashes in the state.

In a coordinated sweep codenamed “Operation Flush Out Cultists and Kidnappers”, operatives uncovered a shrine in Egbaen community, Egor Local Government Area, during an early-morning raid on Wednesday. Though the compound was empty, investigators discovered a hidden shrine containing a white casket and fetish items believed to be used for initiation rituals.

Officials swiftly sealed the property, stressing that the government would no longer tolerate the spiritual and physical infrastructure that sustains cult networks.

The clampdown followed a violent confrontation in Evboyare community, Uhunmwode Local Government Area, where rival confraternities, the Eiye and Maphite, clashed in a dispute that left one man, identified as Festus, dead.

Authorities later sealed the residence of Felix Aigbedion, an alleged Maphite leader, accused of masterminding the assault. He has since been declared wanted.

Security forces also recovered two locally made firearms from a poultry house identified as an improvised armoury for cultists. The confrontation left homes, vehicles, and streets scarred with bullet marks and destruction, forcing families to flee.

Speaking after the operation, coordinator Idemudia Noah said Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration was determined to dismantle criminal networks. He warned that cultists must “renounce or leave Edo State” or face the full weight of the law.

Investigators also uncovered evidence of extortion during initiation rituals, including forced money transfers from victims. Police say prosecutions are underway.

The government has recently intensified its anti-cultism drive, offering amnesty to repentant members while pursuing those linked to violence. (The Guardian)