By Emmanuel Ogoigbe
At least three persons have been confirmed dead following a violent cult clash in the Igbogene suburb of Yenagoa, the capital of Bayelsa State.
The attack, which occurred on Sunday night, sent shockwaves across the community as sustained gunshots were heard in different parts of the area, forcing residents to flee for safety.
Although the identities of the victims were yet to be confirmed as of press time, eyewitnesses described the incident as part of ongoing cult-related violence troubling parts of the state.
Residents said business activities were abruptly halted during the violence, with many people locking up shops and retreating indoors to avoid being caught in the crossfire.
One resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisal, called for increased security surveillance and swift intervention by authorities to restore calm to the area.
The latest killings come amid a series of cult clashes in other parts of the state, where no fewer than six persons were reportedly killed in separate incidents in recent weeks, heightening public concern over safety.
Confirming the development, the spokesperson of the state Police Command, DSP Musa Muhammed, said three lives were lost in the clash.
βYes, three lives were lost. Investigation has commenced and efforts are on to track down and arrest the fleeing suspects,β he stated.
Residents have urged the state government and security agencies to take decisive steps to prevent further bloodshed and restore lasting peace.
