At least five people are feared dead after rival cult groups clashed again in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, with police confirming arrests and the restoration of peace.
The violence, which reportedly started at the weekend, involved the Bobos and Greenlanders. Agudama, Obele and Back of St. Peters were among the affected areas.
Sources said the clash had raised fresh concerns about an earlier peace agreement among cult groups. One source alleged that a youth was killed and beheaded in Agudama, while another person was shot in the buttocks and rescued by a neighbour. His condition was unknown.
The cause of the clash remained unclear, although the two groups were said to have stayed rivals despite past peace efforts.
Movement of youths allegedly linked to cult groups was also said to have reduced around Imgbi Road, Ovom and Obele amid fears of police arrests and further attacks.
Police spokesperson, DSP Musa Mohammed, confirmed the arrests on Tuesday, saying, “Suspects have been arrested, and law and order has since been restored.”
The Commissioner of Police, CP Ajao Saka Adewale, ordered stronger operations, patrols and intelligence gathering against cultism, including planned clashes, initiation and recruitment.
The police also said it would work with community leaders, investigate attacks, stop reprisals and prosecute suspects where evidence supports charges.
Adewale warned cult groups and sponsors that there would be no sacred cows, regardless of status or influence.
The Command urged residents to report threats, avoid reprisals and obey the Bayelsa State Secret Cults/Societies and Similar Activities (Prohibition) Law, 2012, amended in 2018.
