Violence erupted in Rivers State over the weekend, resulting in the death of two individuals after suspected rival cult groups engaged in a bloody confrontation. The incident occurred in the Ngo and Unyengala communities within the Andoni Local Government Area.
Supremacy Battle Turns Deadly
The clash is reported to be between members of the notorious militant group, the Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND), and a faction known as the Iceland cult. According to local sources, the conflict, which began on Sunday evening, spilled over into Monday in a violent struggle for territorial control and dominance in the area.
One resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity due to fear of reprisal, described the terrifying scene. "The shooting started on Sunday evening in Ngo and Unyengala. Everyone was running for their lives. We heard it was Iceland and MEND fighting. Many of us fled, and it was only later we learned that two people had been shot dead," the source recounted.
Police Confirm Incident, Vow Action
The Rivers State Police Command has officially confirmed the violent episode. The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, stated that the command is aware of the incident and has launched an investigation.
"Yes, I can confirm the incident. Two people were killed, and another person was critically injured," SP Iringe-Koko said. She attributed the violence to a supremacy battle between two rival cult groups operating in the Andoni area.
Calm Restored, Investigation Ongoing
The police spokesperson assured the public that measures have been taken to stabilize the situation. "Security has been beefed up, and calm has returned to the area," she affirmed. She further emphasized that the police are committed to bringing the perpetrators to justice, stating, "Investigation is ongoing to ensure the culprits are identified and apprehended."
The clash highlights the persistent challenge of cult-related violence and gang rivalry in parts of Rivers State, often linked to struggles for control and influence within local communities.
