Edo police investigate fatal shooting near UNIBEN, arrest 12 suspected cultists in Auchi

Crime Diary

BENIN CITY, Nigeria (NPA) — The Edo State Police Command has commenced a full-scale investigation into a fatal shooting incident that occurred on May 10, 2026, at about 5:00 p.m. around the University of Benin axis, Benin City.

Preliminary findings revealed that three occupants of a Mercedes-Benz GLK — Onwuke Blessed (M), Alexander Omogiate (M), and Chinenye Christian Mbagwu (M) — were driving out of the University of Benin when an unidentified white GLK intercepted them at the Ugbowo main campus gate. The assailants rolled down their glass and opened fire before fleeing to an unknown destination.

All occupants sustained gunshot injuries, alongside a female passerby, Dorathy Ubah. The victims were rushed to the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), where Alexander Omogiate was confirmed dead. Others are currently responding to treatment.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Monday Agbonika, fdc, has ordered a full-scale investigation to track down the fleeing perpetrators and bring them to justice. In a statement signed by ASP Eno Ikoedem, Police Public Relations Officer, the Command condemned the attack and assured residents that no stone would be left unturned in ensuring justice.

The CP also urged parents and guardians to caution their wards against cultism and criminal activities, stressing that the Command remains resolute in its mission to rid the state of crime. Citizens are encouraged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to the nearest police station.

Meanwhile, in a separate operation, police operatives in collaboration with the Edo State Security Corps (ESSC) arrested 12 suspected cultists in Auchi on May 7, 2026, at about 6:00 p.m., following credible intelligence. The suspects — Abiola Anabgaifo (33), Idogo Joshua (28), Oseni Sani (22), Aminu Abubakar (19), Iyamah Precious (29), Usman Raphael (29), Ogene Jude (31), Ibrahim Aheem (27), Tunde Bright (20), Jude Edeh (21), Godwin Edeh (19), and Aigbona Clifford (20) — allegedly mobilised from Okpella to launch attacks on perceived rivals.

During preliminary investigations, seven suspects confessed to cult-related activities, with affiliations to the Aye and Vikings confraternities. A grey Mercedes-Benz Jeep (GWA 471 DS) allegedly belonging to one Balogun Isreal, currently at large, was recovered.

CP Agbonika commended the swift response and professionalism of the officers involved, stressing that the Command will sustain its crackdown on cultism and violent crimes across Edo State. All suspects have been transferred to the Anti-Cultism Unit and will face prosecution upon conclusion of investigations.

The Command warned criminal elements to repent or leave Edo State, reiterating its readiness to deal decisively with anyone threatening the peace and security of residents.