Five killed in cult clash in Bayelsa

At least five people are feared dead after a fresh cult clash in Yenagoa, the capital of Bayelsa State. The police have confirmed they arrested suspects and have restored order in the affected areas.

The violence started over the weekend. It involved rival cult groups known as the Bobos and Greenlanders. Reports indicate that the clashes happened in Agudama, Obele, and the Back of St. Peters areas of the capital.

This new outbreak of violence has raised serious concerns about the peace agreement that some cult groups had earlier reached in the state.

A source claimed that a youth was killed and beheaded during an attack in Agudama. Another person was said to have been shot in the buttocks and was rescued by a neighbor. We could not immediately determine the condition of the injured victim.

The exact reason for the renewed clash is still unclear. Sources told PUNCH Metro that the Bobos and Greenlanders have remained enemies despite previous peace talks among cult groups in the state.

A visit to Imgbi Road, Ovom, and Obele, areas known for cult activities, showed fewer youths associated with cults. There seems to be fear of police arrests and possible attacks from rival groups.

Confirming the situation, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Musa Mohammed, said on Tuesday that suspects had been arrested and normalcy has returned.

“Suspects have been arrested, and law and order has since been restored,” Mohammed stated.

In another development, the Commissioner of Police for Bayelsa State, CP Ajao Saka Adewale, has ordered stronger actions against cultism and related violence throughout the state.

A statement from the command said the CP directed Divisional Police Officers and tactical commanders to increase patrols in areas at risk. They are to identify new threats and act quickly on reliable information about planned clashes, initiation ceremonies, and recruitment events.

The command also mentioned that they are working closely with community leaders to spot tensions early and stop them from turning violent.

They added that officers would quickly secure areas where attacks took place, investigate those responsible, and work to prevent retaliatory violence.

The CP warned cult groups thinking of launching attacks or retaliating, along with their backers, that the police would pursue them and ensure justice is served.

He emphasized that no one is above the law. Anyone suspected of organizing, funding, helping, or taking part in cult-related crimes will be investigated, regardless of their status or influence.

The command stated that suspects would face charges in court if there is enough evidence for prosecution, following due process.

They also reminded residents that the Bayelsa State Secret Cults/Societies and Similar Activities (Prohibition) Law, 2012, amended in 2018, bans membership and sponsorship of secret cults and imposes penalties upon conviction.

The police are urging parents and guardians to warn their children about cult activities. They also called on residents to report any planned attacks, recruitment drives, or cult-related activities to the nearest police station.

Lastly, the command warned against revenge attacks, hiding suspects, and spreading rumors that could lead to more violence. They urged residents to report threats early and avoid taking the law into their own hands.