The Edo State Government on Monday warned suspected cultists, particularly members of the Black Axe confraternity, against celebrating the annual 7/7 Founders’ Day in any part of the state, declaring that anyone caught would be dealt with in accordance with the law.

The warning came as security operatives arrested two suspected cultists, identified as Muhammed Oakumhe and Omukoro Aghogho, in Uromi, Esan North-East Local Government Area, and Auchi, Etsako West Local Government Area, respectively.

The suspects were reportedly arrested with two pump-action guns during an operation led by the Principal Security Officer to Governor Monday Okpebholo.

Addressing journalists in Benin on Monday, the spokesman for the Edo State Security Squad, codenamed Operation Flush Out Kidnappers and Cultism, Noah Idemudia, said the arrests followed actionable intelligence.

He warned cult groups in the state to abandon any plan to mark the 7/7 celebration.

According to him, “We are warning those involved in criminal activities in Edo State to stay clear. Tomorrow, July 7, is the cultists’ celebration day.

“You cannot carry out that action in Edo State. If you have plans to celebrate Founders’ Day, it is better to cancel them. If you are caught, that will be your nemesis.”

Idemudia also reminded business owners that the July 31 deadline for the installation of Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras on their premises remained in force, urging them to comply before enforcement begins.

He said: “We advise business owners to comply with the directive. The Governor has given a deadline that by August 1, all business owners must have CCTV cameras installed. We will go around to enforce compliance.

“This will go a long way in helping us tackle crime and criminality. We urge them to comply so that Edo will be a safe place.

“We will send invitations to Okagheles (community youth leaders) for profiling. The Governor is serious about this. I want all community elders to cooperate.

“We know the community is a traditional institution. We are working in line with the Palace. Anybody who impersonates an Okaghele will be arrested.”

The security spokesman said the CCTV initiative was aimed at strengthening surveillance and enhancing efforts to combat crime and criminality across the state.

The two suspects, however, told security operatives that they had renounced their membership of the cult group, although they admitted they were not licensed to possess the firearms recovered from them. (Nigerian Tribune)

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