The police in Anambra State, South-east Nigeria, have reported the deaths of four individuals following a violent cult clash in Umuka, Nawfia Community, Njikoka Local Government Area.
The incident, which occurred on Sunday morning, has heightened concerns about the ongoing cult-related violence in the region.
Police spokesperson Tochukwu Ikenga, a superintendent of police, disclosed that operatives from the Nimo Divisional Police Headquarters received a distress call at approximately 8:25 a.m. on Sunday.
“The operatives upon arriving at the scene, found four lifeless bodies of young men in a pool of blood with suspected multiple gunshot injuries lying on the road,” Ikenga stated.
The victims were confirmed dead by a doctor on duty and have been deposited in a morgue.
The deceased have been identified as Ebuka Ekenta, Junior Nnatuanya, Aniemena, and Ahmed Auwal.
According to Ikenga, “Information from eyewitnesses and some villagers reveal that the victims are known for their nefarious activities and are always in rivalry with another cult group in the area.”
In response to the incident, a joint security team has intensified patrols in the area to prevent further violence and maintain order.
In a separate operation on Sunday, police operatives thwarted an attempted kidnapping of an unnamed expatriate in Ogbunka, a community in Orumba South Local Government Area of Anambra State.
The operatives engaged the kidnappers in a shootout during the attack, resulting in gunshot injuries to two police officers.
ALSO READ: Anthony Joshua: I’m a Warrior, I’ll Keep Fighting
“They are stable and are currently receiving treatment in a hospital,” Ikenga confirmed.
The police are actively conducting operations in the area to apprehend the kidnappers and ensure the safety of the community.
The police have urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities to aid in maintaining peace and security in the region.
