The Edo State Police Command has arrested 21 students, aged 14 to 17, from Ogioma Public Secondary School for alleged involvement in cultism and a foiled attack on a neighbouring school in Benin City.
Police spokesperson CSP Moses Yamu says operatives from the Loveworld Division acted on credible intelligence on Wednesday, mobilising quickly to Osemwende Public Secondary School. The teenagers reportedly arrived in a convoy of motorcycles, allegedly to carry out violent acts.
According to police, the students—suspected members of rival cult groups—had earlier circulated a threat voice note, boasting about plans to burn down the school and harm students and staff.
Twenty-one were arrested, while others fled. Officers recovered four knives and a metal chain.
Eight suspects have been remanded, while thirteen were released to their parents, who must present them in court on 28th November 2025.
The principals of both schools have been invited for questioning.
Commissioner of Police Monday Agbonika is urging parents to monitor their children closely and calling on school authorities to strengthen discipline and report suspicious behavior.
