Police nab 10 suspected cultists after deadly attack in Bayelsa

The Bayelsa State Police has arrested 10 suspected cultists. They were taken in after a deadly attack in the Obele area of Ovom, Yenagoa. This attack claimed the life of a metal scavenger, known as an “Iron Condemned” operator, and left three others injured.

The Commissioner of Police for Bayelsa State, Iyamah Daniel, shared this news on Tuesday. He spoke to journalists at the police headquarters in Yenagoa.

Daniel explained that the suspects were caught in a raid. This raid happened after residents informed the police about armed cultists in the area. The cultists were said to be shooting randomly and robbing people of their mobile phones and other valuables.

He mentioned that the suspects invaded the Obele community at night. They took belongings from residents before facing resistance from a group of metal scavengers.

Sources told PUNCH Online that the scavengers stood their ground and refused to hand over their mobile phones. This led to the attackers opening fire on them.

One of the victims later died in the hospital due to gunshot wounds. Three others were left with various injuries.

The police commissioner said investigations are still ongoing. They aim to identify and arrest other members of the gang who are still free.

Daniel stated, “Ten suspected cultists have been arrested following a raid prompted by a distress call from residents alleging that armed cultists were on the rampage in the Obele area of Yenagoa.

“We urge members of the public to remain vigilant and continue to cooperate with the police by providing credible information. Those responsible for this attack will be brought to justice.”

A local resident, who asked to remain anonymous, shared their experience. They said the attackers robbed residents of their phones and other valuables before turning their guns on the scavengers.

“The attackers were robbing residents of their phones and valuables. The ‘Iron Condemned’ boys resisted handing over their phones, and the gunmen opened fire on them,” the resident said.

Daniel assured everyone that all those responsible for the attack will be arrested and prosecuted according to the law.