Osakpolor Edebor, a 32-year-old notorious cult leader on the Edo State police’s wanted list, has been apprehended by operatives in Auchi, Etsako West Local Government Area.
Edebor, allegedly part of a gang of gunmen posing as secret cult members, is accused of leading a gruesome attack that resulted in the beheading of a man identified as Cyril at Uwelu Market in Benin City. Following the crime, he reportedly fled to Auchi, where he joined a group of internet fraudsters operating out of a so-called “yahoo yahoo academy.”
Police raided the academy after reports of fraudulent activities, arresting Edebor and uncovering his connection to the Uwelu Market murder during further investigations. Edebor confessed to his involvement, claiming the act was in retaliation for the death of a fellow cult member, identified only as Lagbaja.
Edebor recounted his arrest, explaining that a dispute over ₦6 million in fraud proceeds led to a violent altercation that drew police attention. “It was at the police station that my involvement in the cult matter came to light,” he admitted.
The State Commissioner of Police, Umoru Ozigi, confirmed that other members of Edebor’s gang have been identified and are now being pursued. He praised residents for their cooperation in combating cult-related violence, which has claimed numerous lives in recent weeks.
