Cult-related violence in Bayelsa State has claimed three more lives following renewed clashes between rival groups, authorities confirmed on Monday.
The Bayelsa State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Musa Muhammad, told reporters that investigations have commenced and security operatives are pursuing fleeing suspects linked to the incident.
“Yes it’s true, we have commenced investigation and I can assure you that efforts are on and in no distant time the fleeing suspects will be arrested,” he said.
The latest outbreak is reportedly connected to clashes between the Bobos and Greenlanders cult groups, which have collectively claimed at least three lives in the recent incident.
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Two weeks ago, a 30-year-old man identified as Ebi, associated with the Greenlanders group, was reportedly beheaded by suspected Bobos members in the Yenegue area of Yenagoa, escalating tensions across the state capital.
Sources indicate that at least six people have died in Yenagoa in recent weeks due to the cult-related violence.
The clashes have also left several young people injured, forced some residents to flee their homes, and temporarily disrupted business activities.
Community leaders have appealed for calm, urging youths to avoid violence and embrace peaceful conduct, while residents are calling on state authorities and security agencies to strengthen measures to prevent further attacks.