A violent clash between rival cult groups in Onne, Eleme Local Government Area of Rivers State, has left three people dead and three others arrested, sparking fear and unrest in the community.
The conflict reportedly began on Friday, when one of the cult groups launched a deadly attack, killing two individuals. The violence escalated the following day when members of the rival group retaliated, leading to further bloodshed.
Among the casualties was a notorious cultist known as ‘Small Lighter,’ who had been a source of terror in the area.
The incident sent panic through the community, with many residents fleeing their homes as gunshots echoed across the neighborhood.
Spokesperson of the Rivers State Police Command, Grace Iringe-Koko, confirmed the incident while speaking with journalists in Port Harcourt on Sunday.
“Yes, I can confirm the cult clash. Three persons were killed and three suspects arrested,” Iringe-Koko stated.
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She explained that the violence started when ‘Small Lighter’ allegedly killed a member of the opposing cult group, prompting an immediate retaliation that led to his death.
“One of the suspects, called ‘Small Lighter,’ who has been terrorizing the Eleme axis, killed a member of the other cult. In retaliation, they went after him and killed him. One other person was also killed earlier, bringing the total number of casualties to three,” she added.
Security forces have since been deployed to the troubled area, restoring calm while investigations continue to track down other fleeing suspects.
Reacting to the incident, Chairman of Eleme LGA, Brian Gokpa, assured the public that his administration would work closely with security agencies to bring those responsible to justice.
“Security agencies have been deployed to Onne. Everything is under control because we are working with the relevant security agencies, so there is no need for panic,” Gokpa stated.
He also urged the youths in Onne to remain calm and avoid seeking revenge.
“Let me use this opportunity to advise Onne youths to stay calm. Nobody should take the law into their own hands, as security agencies are on top of the situation,” he said.
The police have assured residents that efforts are ongoing to track down all those involved in the deadly clash and prevent further violence in the area.
