Zangbeto

thumb|Zangbeto in 2006|right thumb|Zangbeto in a vodun-festival in Benin.|right

Zangbeto are the traditional Vodún guardians of the night among the Ogu (or Egun) people of Benin, Togo, and Nigeria. A traditional police and security institution, the Zangbeto cult is charged with the maintenance of law and order, and ensures safety and security within Ogu communities. They are highly revered and act as an unofficial police force patrolling the streets, especially in the night, watching over people and their properties, and tracking down criminals and presenting them to the community to punish. Originally created to scare the enemy away, Zangbeto will wander the streets to detect thieves and witches, and to protect law and order.