Three officers of the Edo State Security Corps (ESSC) were shot dead by suspected cultists during an attack on Wire Road in Benin City.
A fourth person was injured in the attack and is currently receiving treatment at a hospital in the city.
The Edo State Police Command confirmed the killings and announced the arrest of one suspect, Bello Salami, 33 years old. Salami was caught at Benin Airport while trying to escape.
Police spokesperson Moses Yamu said investigations are ongoing to catch other members of the gang who fled the scene. The arrested suspect will be charged in court.
The deceased officers Eghosa Onaiwu, Lucky, and Charles were unarmed when the gunmen arrived in a Lexus jeep and opened fire while they were relaxing at a house on Wire Road.
A source, who spoke anonymously, said the gunmen attacked in a commando-style raid, killing the officers instantly and shooting another person who was nearby.
The shooting caused panic in the neighborhood as the assailants fired shots indiscriminately before escaping.
Police acted quickly after receiving a tip-off and arrested one of the main suspects at the airport.