The Benue State Police Command has arrested 11 suspected cultists in connection with the killing of eight persons during an early morning attack in Makurdi.

The Command’s spokesperson, DSP Udeme Edet, confirmed the arrests in a statement issued on Monday in Makurdi, noting that detectives were deployed to the scene immediately after a distress call was received.

According to the statement, “On 11/05/2026 at about 0230hrs, a distress call was received from a landlord at Aliade Street, High Level, Makurdi, that some armed men came to his house, dragged some young men out of their room and shot them.”

She added that preliminary investigation indicated the attack was cult-related and allegedly carried out by a gang suspected to be led by one “Odinaka,” who is currently at large.

The landlord reported that armed individuals had invaded his residence, forcefully removed some young men from their rooms, and subsequently shot them.

This alarming report prompted immediate action from law enforcement.

Detectives were swiftly deployed to the scene of the crime, and initial investigations conducted by the police have strongly indicated that the attack was indeed cult-related.

DSP Edet further revealed that the operation was allegedly carried out by a gang suspected to be led by an individual known as “Odinaka,” who has a notorious reputation for engaging in similar criminal activities within the area.

As of now, eleven suspects have been taken into custody in connection with these heinous killings.

However, efforts are still actively underway to apprehend the alleged gang leader, Odinaka, who remains at large.

The police are intensifying their search to bring him to justice and ensure the safety and security of the residents.

DSP Edet reiterated that preliminary findings point towards a cult-related motive, executed by a team suspected to be under Odinaka’s command.

She assured the public that additional details regarding the incident will be communicated through an official press release to be issued at a later time, as the investigation progresses and more information becomes available.