By IMELDA OSAYANDE

The Edo Government taskforce has demolished properties allegedly linked to cult activities in Uromi, Esan North-East Local Government Area.

This is contained in a statement signed by Patrick Ebojele, Chief Press Secretary to Gov. Monday Okpebholo, on Saturday in Benin.

Ebojele said the action formed part of intensified efforts to curb kidnapping, cultism, and other criminal acts across the state.

He explained that the move followed a major security raid on Nov. 17 by the State Special Security Squad, working with the Nigerian Army and other agencies.

“During that operation, 31 suspects were arrested at various hideouts,” he said.

He added that alleged leaders of the Black Axe and Eiye confraternities were given a seven-day ultimatum to surrender after the Nov. 16 clash in Uromi.

“With the ultimatum expired and no compliance from the wanted cult leaders, the taskforce moved to pull down buildings where incriminating evidence was found,” he said.

The operation was led by CSP Michael Anetor, Principal Security Officer to the governor, with support from the Uromi Divisional Police Officer and other security groups.

Idemudia Noah, coordinator of Operation Flush Out Kidnapping and Cultism, said the demolition became necessary after the suspects ignored the ultimatum and an extended grace period.

He said the affected properties would now be taken over by the Edo government for use as operational bases.

In a separate operation based on intelligence, the squad raided the Hausa quarters in Uromi and arrested 15 persons after illicit drugs were found.

The suspects were transferred to the Uromi Divisional Headquarters for profiling, further investigation, and likely prosecution.

Noah said drug peddling in the area had become a magnet for hoodlums, cultists, and kidnappers.

One suspect, a marijuana dealer identified as Tajudeen Lawal, confessed to selling drugs with two others in the Hausa quarters. (NAN)