Six killed as rival cultists clash in Rivers community

A clash involving two rival cult groups has reportedly led to the death of no fewer than six persons in the Odiokuu community, in the Ahoada West Local Government Area of Rivers State.

According to PUNCH Metro, the clash between the Icelanders and Greenlanders cult groups started on Sunday afternoon.

It was learnt that members of one of the cult groups were having fun at a location in the community when members of the rival gang stormed the premises and started shooting at them.

During the sudden attack, the suspects who invaded the premises were said to have shot six rival members to death.

Speaking with our correspondent, a source said the incident occurred on Sunday afternoon, adding that the attack caused tension as residents and customers at the location ran helter-skelter to keep safe.

He said, "I can tell you that the Icelanders and Greenlanders boys have been having problems. So, while members of the other group were hanging out, the other group ambushed them.

"They shot at them and killed six of the other group members. There was confusion and people were running from the area to avoid being hit by bullets."

Contacted, the state Police Public Relations Officer, Grace Iringe-Koko, confirmed the incident and noted that an investigation into the case was ongoing.

Iringe-Koko said, "Yes, I can confirm the incident that six people died. It is a cult clash. The Divisional Police Officer in charge of Akinima Division has already mobilised men to the area to prevent any reprisal.

"Additional tactical team have been deployed to ensure that the place is safe and to reassure the confidence of the residence."

Asked if any arrest had been made, she said, " No arrest yet for now. But we have commenced full-scale investigations to ascertain the immediate and remote causes of the incident

"We will also ensure that the suspects who carried out the attack are apprehended and meant to face justice."