The Edo State Government has intensified its sweeping campaign against cultism, criminal gangs, and ritual practices. It has sealed multiple properties linked to suspected cult leaders following the discovery of a shrine in Egbaen community and a violent confrontation in Evboyare that claimed a life.
The coordinated operation, codenamed “Operation Flush Out Cultists and Kidnappers”, was led by the Squad’s coordinator, Idemudia Noah, in collaboration with allied security agencies.
Acting on intelligence reports, operatives stormed a residence in Egbaen, Egor Local Government Area, in the early hours of Wednesday, August 20, 2025. Though the building was unoccupied, a search uncovered a secluded shrine at the rear of the premises.
Inside, officers found a white casket and fetish items believed to have been used for initiation rituals and other clandestine activities.
In swift response, the Edo State Government ordered the immediate sealing of the property, an emphatic signal of its resolve to dismantle the physical and spiritual infrastructure sustaining cultism across the State.
Simultaneously, security forces moved to Evboyare community in Uhunmwode Local Government Area, which had been the scene of a bloody clash between rival confraternities, the Eiye and Maphite, leaving one person, identified as Festus, dead.
READ ALSO: Police Arrest Officer, Civilians For Extortion And Armed Robbery In Edo
The residence of the alleged Maphite leader, Felix Aigbedion, was sealed after intelligence linked him to the crisis.
Aigbedion, now declared wanted, is believed to have masterminded the assault during a community dispute that spiraled into cult violence.
By the time operatives arrived, Evboyare lay in desolation. Homes, vehicles, and personal property bore the marks of destruction, while spent cartridges littered the ground; grim evidence of the crossfire that terrorized residents and forced families to flee.
Two locally made firearms were recovered from a poultry house, which investigators identified as a makeshift armory for cultists.
Speaking after the operation, Idemudia Noah reaffirmed the Edo State Government’s uncompromising posture.
“The administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo is unwavering in its determination to purge Edo State of cult-related violence and criminal syndicates. We have sealed the property of Mr. Felix Aigbedion, who has been implicated in the fatal clash at Evboyare, as well as the Egbaen residence of Mr. Marvellous Adetarami, where a shrine was uncovered. These measures are not symbolic. They are a clear statement that clandestine activities will no longer find sanctuary in Edo State,” he noted.
Investigations, Noah disclosed, also unearthed disturbing evidence of extortion during initiation processes, including the forced transfer of money from victims to cultists. He stressed that the Police had been fully briefed and are pursuing prosecutions.
In his warning to criminal elements, Noah declared, “Cultists have only two options: renounce or leave Edo State. The full weight of the law will descend on anyone who persists.
As she took to social media to boast about Beau Redknapp’s and Jamie Redknapp’s GCSE results, Louise Redknapp was a “super proud” mother.
Louise Redknapp emotional as she reveals son she shares with Jamie’s GCSE results(Image: Lia Toby, Getty Images)
Louise Redknapp was a ‘super proud’ mum as she boasted about her son Beau’s GCSE results. Hundreds of thousands of students received their GCSE results on Thursday morning, with more than a fifth (21.9%) of students who got their results being awarded a grade 7 (an A).
Eternal singer Louise, 50, was one of the many parental figures paying tribute to their children. She took to her Instagram page to share a picture of her with her son. Both smiled for the cameras as Beau, who she shares with ex-husband Jamie Redknapp, wrapped an arm around her shoulder.
“Super proud of you Beau, you smashed your GCSEs!” “!, she wrote. “Good luck to all the students who are getting their results today!” expressing a lot of love.
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Louise and Beau posed for a sweet snap(Image: louiseredknapp/Instagram)
Fans eluded the teen’s comments in the comment section, with one user praising the teenager for his excellent photo and year-end results, Beau. Today, my daughter is so proud of her results.
“Congratulations @beau_redknapp The world is your oyster,” another enthusiastic fan said. “No matter the results, it’s how you show up each day that counts. Be amazing in whatever you decide to do mister! Be brave, Be courageous, Be resilient and most of all, always, Be kind. @louiseredknapp.”
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It comes after Louise shared her disbelief at the fact she is the mother of a 21-year-old son. The 50-year-old pop singer is a proud mum-of-two, sharing sons Charley and Beau with ex-husband Jamie Redknapp, 52.
Louise Redknapp shares Charley and Beau with Jamie Redknapp(Image: louiseredknapp/Instagram)
Taking to Instagram last month, the Light of My Life singer shared a carousel of content about her son. She uploaded photos of her son from the days he was a baby through to his time now as a young man.
She featured in some of the images herself – with the cover image showing her and Charley smiling as they posed side-by-side together.
The final slide showed Louise and family members raising a glass to cheers Charley – who towered over most of them. She wrote in an accompanying caption: “How did this happen?! my baby is 21 years old today!! !
” Chaz I am so proud of you and the charming young man you have become, you’ve been my partner in crime and shadow since day one and nothing makes me happier than seeing you living your best life.
“You have an incredible future ahead of you keep on working hard and absolutely smashing it. I would however like to request that you now at the age of 21 learn how to wash up, turn the lights off and pick your clothes up off the bedroom floor… but maybe we’ll get there for next year”.
And she concluded: “Happy Birthday Charley, Have the most amazing day! We love you so much. Love Mum”.
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The fashion designer is a big fan of a certain breakfast food that is packed with healthy oils and nutrients
Victoria Beckham often talks about only eating grilled fish and vegetables(Image: Getty )
Victoria Beckham, the fashion designer and mother of four, is renowned for her svelte figure and radiant complexion. However, the 50-year-old doesn’t maintain her stunning looks alone – she attributes much of her appearance to her disciplined dietary habits and adherence to the Mediterranean diet.
In a 2019 interview with The Telegraph, the former Spice Girls star revealed that she consumes three or four avocados daily to enhance her skin’s glow. Victoria Beckham typically enjoys avocados for breakfast, either smashed on bread or blended into a green smoothie.
Avocados are a staple in the Mediterranean diet, which is favoured by numerous other celebrities. Penélope Cruz has previously spoken about following the Mediterranean diet, which mirrors the food she eats in Spain. Cameron Diaz referenced the diet in her books The Body Book and The Longevity Book. Meanwhile, John Goodman shed 200 pounds by adhering to the diet.
Avocados are packed with natural fatty acids that play a pivotal role in skin rejuvenation. These fatty acids are nutrient-dense, helping your skin retain its smooth and youthful appearance for longer. Avocados are also an excellent source of vitamin E, which can help minimise visible signs of ageing. They also contain vitamin A, crucial for effective cell repair.
Avocados are also packed with biotin, a member of the B vitamin family. When applied to the skin, biotin can help fight dryness and is known to keep hair and nails strong and less likely to become brittle. Avocados contain vitamin E, fibre and monounsaturated fats, too. Vitamins C’s antioxidants protect cells from damage.
Avocado Cut In Half On A Chopping Board. Next To The Whole Fruit And A Knife.
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What does research show?
A 2011 study discovered that avocados contain compounds that could potentially protect the skin from sun damage and inflammation. Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays can cause wrinkles and other signs of ageing and increase the risk of skin cancer.
In 2010, a separate study involving over 700 women explored the impact of consuming healthy fats and antioxidant micronutrients on skin health. The results suggested that a higher intake of fats, especially healthy monounsaturated fats like those found in avocados, was associated with improved skin elasticity and less visible wrinkles.
Other studies have shown that consuming avocados may help to protect overall wellbeing. The conclusion of one 2013 study reads: “Avocados contain a very low sugar content with only about 0.2 g sugar per one-half fruit. There are eight preliminary avocado cardiovascular health clinical studies that have consistently demonstrated positive heart healthy effects on blood lipids profiles. The consumption of avocados with salads or salsa increases the bioavailability of carotenoids multi-fold, which may add to the potential health benefits.”
Avocados are rich in biotin too(Image: Getty)
While Victoria reportedly consumes three to four avocados daily, most nutritionists would consider this excessive, particularly given the amount of fat involved. Other ways to incorporate healthy fats into your diet include drizzling extra virgin olive oil over a salad or nibbling on nuts.
Before making any significant changes to your diet or lifestyle, it’s always wise to have a chat with your GP. As with any dietary plan, it’s best to seek advice from a healthcare professional who can ensure the plan fits your personal needs and guide you through any required modifications.
What exactly is the Mediterranean diet?
The Mediterranean diet emphasises plant-based foods and healthy fats. It promotes a diet abundant in vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. Extra virgin olive oil is the main source of fat in this diet, which could potentially lower your risk of heart disease and other chronic health conditions. Foods in the Mediterranean diet include:
A wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables is a cornerstone of the diet.
Whole wheat bread, brown rice, quinoa, and other whole grains are preferred.
Beans, lentils, and chickpeas are excellent sources of plant-based protein.
A variety of nuts and seeds are included for healthy fats and nutrients.
Extra virgin olive oil is the primary source of fat.
Fish, especially fatty fish rich in omega-3s like salmon and sardines, are encouraged.
Low-fat dairy products like yoghurt and cheese are included in moderation.
Chicken and other poultry are often included in place of red meat.
Red wine is often consumed in moderation with meals.
What do experts say?
Lily Keeling, Senior Recipe Development Manager and Registered Nutritionist at Green Chef UK, says avocados are a good source of dietary fibre. She adds: “Fibre is great for the digestive system by contributing to a healthy functioning gut, and monounsaturated fats help maintain healthy cholesterol by lowering LDL cholesterol and raising HDL cholesterol, in turn reducing your risk of heart disease. Incorporating avocados into a balanced diet is a great way of getting these nutrients in.”
Speaking to Superdrug Online Doctor, British GP Dr Hana Patel said: “The Mediterranean diet has long been celebrated as one of the healthiest eating patterns in the world. Its popularity dates back to the 1970s, when American physiologist Ancel Keys observed that people living in regions like Greece and Southern Italy had strikingly low rates of heart disease and cholesterol compared to those in the West.
“Since then, decades of research have confirmed that this way of eating can protect the heart, reduce the risk of chronic disease, and promote longevity. At its core, the Mediterranean diet champions plant-based foods—fresh vegetables, fruits, legumes, nuts, and wholegrains—flavoured with herbs and spices rather than excess salt.
“It also focuses on healthy fats, especially from extra-virgin olive oil and avocados, which provide anti-inflammatory benefits, while lean proteins, particularly fish and seafood, are favoured over red meat. What makes this diet especially appealing today is not just its impact on heart health, but also its effect on the skin.
“Packed with antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin E, and polyphenols, alongside omega-3 fatty acids, the Mediterranean diet has been linked to enhanced skin hydration, improved elasticity, and even a slower rate of visible ageing—explaining why so many A-listers, including Victoria Beckham, have embraced it in recent years.”
Besides her achievements and career, the mum of four is known for her youthful appearance
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Professor Franklin Joseph, medical director at Dr Frank’s Weight Loss Clinic, said: “Victoria Beckham embracing the Mediterranean diet is one of the best decisions she could make for her long-term health. It’s one of the most evidence-based eating patterns in the world – shown to reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes and even Alzheimer’s.
Shopping Writer Meghan has found a way to transform her home into a Mediterranean haven just like the Greek villa she recently stayed in, with this huge olive tree that’s now £320 less
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‘My Greek villa had a gorgeous olive tree—now I can grow my own for £320 less’(Image: Meghan Coon)
Anyone who has ever visited Greece will likely know that there are olive trees literally everywhere, and I was lucky enough to have a gorgeous array of native Mediterranean trees growing right on the doorstep of my coastal Greek villa on my recent holiday. And if, like me, you’d love to add a Greek twist to your UK garden or patio without spending a fortune, this Gardening Express sale is just for you, as a huge XXXL olive tree is currently up for grabs with a massive £320 saving.
The tree touted as a Mega XXXL Tuscan olive tree is perfect for adding a Mediterranean flourish to any outdoor space. This olive tree is an ideal choice for creating a Greek-themed centrepiece in your courtyard, patio, or garden, and right now, you can do so at a fraction of its ordinary price, as this sale sees its price plummet from £500 all the way down to £180.
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This XXXL Mediterranean Tuscan Olive Tree is now £179.99 down from £499.99(Image: Gardening Express)
This extra-large, chunky-trunked, heavy-duty specimen boasts a gorgeous, dense, bushy crown of attractive silvery foliage that’s sure to add a Mediterranean vibe to any outdoor space.
Whether you’re planting directly into the garden, adding to an existing border or transplanting into a terracotta planter, this tree retains its elegant, grey-green leaves all year. It’s tiny, fragrant, creamy-white flowers first appear during the summer, which then become ample green edible fruit in the Autumn, ripening to black as we head deeper into the season.
This well-established olive tree promises to make an immediate and impressive impact on your garden. It’s fully hardy, ensuring it can withstand any condition, from droughts to harsh UK winters. With proper care, these long-living trees are likely to continue to thrive for decades.
Arriving at a height of 2 metres, with a 1.3-metre head of foliage and a trunk girth of a whopping 60cm at the time of delivery, these trees are set to just keep getting bigger and better over time, becoming more characterful as the trunk develops its noteworthy gnarled bark.
They’re perfect for a sunny, Greek-style garden and will happily settle in any sun-drenched part of your outdoor space. Although they’re slow-growing, with a nice stem and attractive silvery leaves, you can now admire the iconic Mediterranean tree from your own backyard. It’s set to transport you back to your favourite holidays on the continent.
Save a massive £320 on this monster of an olive tree while this Gardening Express deal lasts, and secure the must-have piece to turn your garden into an Italian haven for the significantly reduced price of £179.99 while this deal lasts.
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For those looking for something a bit smaller, check out this extra-large, heavy-duty Tuscan olive tree, which is currently available for £149.99, down from £399.99.
As part of the military’s strategy to besiege and occupy Gaza City, Israeli troops have begun to advance on the area. The Netanyahu government is advancing the assault despite a worldwide outcry. What we know is explained by Soraya Lennie.
According to reports on Wednesday, Arsenal are close to acquiring Eberechi Eze from Tottenham Hotspur in what could be one of the most audacious moves of the Premier League’s summer transfer window.
The 27-year-old Crystal Palace attacking midfielder appeared to be heading for Spurs’ area of north London.
However, it is now speculated that Arsenal may scuttle the deal and sign England international Eze from the Emirates after Kai Havertz was injured in a knee injury.
According to The Athletic, Arsenal and Palace had reached a definitive agreement to sign Eze, which would have cost Arsenal around the $ 68 million ($91 million) release clause and be in line with the price that Spurs were willing to pay.
After Havertz suffered a broken leg, Arsenal’s interest increased.
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On January 12, 2025, Gabriel consoles Havertz following Arsenal’s and Manchester United’s third-round football game at the Emirates Stadium in London. (Glyn KIRK/AFP photo)
The German international completed the match in the second half of Sunday’s 2-1 victory over Manchester United, but he was unable to attend Arsenal’s Wednesday open training at the Emirates.
Spurs, who won the Europa League final, finished the campaign in a lowly 17th place, one place above the relegation zone, while Premier League champions Liverpool finished second last season and are expected to contend for the title once more.
Before Palace’s Conference League play-off against Fredrikstad at home to Chelsea, Eze trained on Wednesday and played 84 minutes of the weekend draw at Chelsea. Coach Oliver Glasner said he and Eagles captain Marc Guehi would both start the European tie.
Before Chelsea, I believe many of you were unaware Marc and Ebs had started and played almost the entire game, Glasner said in a press conference prior to the game on Wednesday.
“Due to all the rumors, the majority of you will be surprised that they will start again tomorrow. They are committed, though, once more.
The English FA Community Shield football match between Crystal Palace and Liverpool at Wembley Stadium in London on August 10, 2025, sees Crystal Palace’s #06 Marc Guehi lift the trophy. (Glyn KIRK/AFP photo)
They are committed to the team, they have a contract here, they played a crucial role for us, and they will play a crucial role as long as they are here, according to Glasner, who also led Palace to Community Shield glory in a penalty shoot-out victory over Liverpool.
Because they are good, they are committed to the team, and they want to leave as Crystal Palace players who have always given 100% of their time, which I don’t know at the moment.
“We expect this from them until the end of their contract, whenever this is,” they said. “This is what they have done since they signed.
On May 17, 2025, Crystal Palace’s English defenders Marc Guehi (center) and Crystal Palace’s #02 Joel Ward (center) lift the trophy as they celebrate following the English FA Cup final football game between Crystal Palace and Manchester City at Wembley Stadium in London. (Photo by Glyn KIRK/AFP)  
Guehi, the captain of the palace, will remain in contract until 2027, while Eze’s contract expires in 2027.
This noise, these rumors, Glasner said, “It’s been written for weeks, not just for three days.”
