Gunshots were heard at the Ignatius Ajuru University of Education in Rivers State after suspected members of rival cult groups clashed on the institution’s campus.

The incident reportedly caused panic among students and staff as the groups battled for territorial control, prompting students to seek safety.

The clash involved suspected members of the Vikings and Black Axe groups, according to reports. The confrontation was believed to be connected to an earlier dispute between rival groups.

Security personnel arrested one suspect during the incident and recovered a pistol from him, according to the police. The suspect was subsequently transferred to the Anti-Cultism Unit of the Rivers State Police Command for further investigation.

The Rivers State Police Command confirmed the incident and said an investigation was ongoing.

Police spokesperson Grace Iringe-Koko said adequate security measures had been deployed to prevent a breakdown of law and order and restore normalcy on the campus.

The incident adds to concerns over cult-related violence in and around tertiary institutions in Rivers State, where authorities have previously investigated clashes involving rival groups.