From Femi Folaranmi, Yenagoa
A deadly cult war in Yenagoa, Bayelsa, has claimed four lives amid heavy shootings over the weekend. Two Niger Delta University graduates awaiting NYSC call-up were hacked to death in Gbarantoru, one person was killed in Amarata, and another died in Swali on Sunday morning.
In Gbarantoru, assailants arrived in a vehicle, spotted their targets, and attacked, chanting “aye, aye” while using machetes. “They practically used their machetes to inflict deep wounds and made a mess of their bodies,” a resident said.
One victim attempted to escape into a creek but was attacked again upon reaching shore until unconscious. Both were confirmed dead at a community health centre due to severe blood loss, according to Tolummbofa Jonathan, Commander of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria, Bayelsa Chapter.
Police arrested 17 suspects, including 13 found in a Suzuki minibus with blood-stained clothes and machetes during a stop-and-search operation by the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) along Tombia-Amassoma Road on Friday night.
“They went to Gbarantoru for the operation… they have all been taken into custody,” an RRS officer said. The driver of the assailants’ vehicle was also detained. The State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) is handling the case, confirmed Police Public Relations Officer Musa Mohammed.
Heavy shootings between rival cult groups, reportedly involving the Neo Black Movement (Black Axe), Bobos, and Vikings, occurred in Amarata, Azikoro, Swali, and Famgbe.
The Amarata killing is believed to be a reprisal for Gbarantoru, while Sunday’s clash at Swali Ultra-Modern Market left one dead. A police source emphasised efforts to end cult violence, stating, “We want politicians to steer clear of influencing police investigations. We will ensure those arrested face the law.”