Operatives of the Nigeria Police Force in the Ugbowo Division, Edo State, have arrested two suspected cult members allegedly planning illegal activities in Benin City.
This was confirmed in a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikoedem, released on Wednesday, May 27, 2026.
According to the statement, the suspects — Victor Peter, 21, and Iyemoma Ogbewe, 35 — were picked up on May 21 in Ohonre Community, along Adolor College Road in Benin City at about 7pm.
Police said the arrest followed a distress call about the movement and gathering of suspected cult members in the area.
Acting on the report, officers from the Ugbowo Division quickly moved to the location for surveillance and intervention.
On arrival, the suspects allegedly attempted to escape after noticing the police presence, leading to a brief chase before they were captured.
The command stated that both suspects later admitted to being members of the Maphite cult group during interrogation.
A search carried out on them reportedly led to the recovery of one locally made cut-to-size gun believed to have been intended for unlawful use.
The police also confirmed that efforts are ongoing to track down other members of the gang who fled the scene during the operation.