At least three persons were killed on Sunday night following a violent cult clash in Igbogene, a suburb of Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital.
The attack triggered widespread panic in the community as sustained gunshots rang out across different parts of the area. Residents, fearing for their safety, reportedly fled their homes, while commercial activities were abruptly halted as the violence escalated.
Although the identities of the victims had not been immediately ascertained at the time of reporting, eyewitnesses described the incident as part of a disturbing pattern of cult-related violence that has continued to plague parts of Bayelsa State in recent months.
A resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisals, said the frequency of such clashes has left residents living in constant fear. The source called on security agencies to intensify surveillance and patrols in the area to restore calm and prevent further loss of lives.
The latest clash has heightened concerns over public safety in the state, coming on the heels of recent cult-related incidents in which no fewer than six people were reportedly killed in separate attacks across different communities. Residents say the recurring violence underscores the urgent need for decisive action by both the state government and security agencies.
When contacted, the spokesperson of the Bayelsa State Police Command, Musa Muhammed, confirmed the incident. The Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) said three persons lost their lives during the clash.
“Yes, three lives were lost. Investigation has commenced, and efforts are ongoing to track down and arrest the fleeing suspects,” he said.
The Nigeria Police Force assured residents that measures were being put in place to prevent a recurrence, as security operatives intensify investigations to bring those responsible to justice.
