Two people have been confirmed dead, two others abducted, and several injured following a violent clash between suspected rival cult groups in Oko, a town hosting the Federal Polytechnic in Orumba North Local Government Area of Anambra State.
The incident, which occurred around 8:40 p.m. on Wednesday, June 19, 2025, took place near Total Junction and Tipper Junction in the town.
Security forces have since moved in to restore order and search for the perpetrators.
Spokesperson for the Anambra State Police Command, DSP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the incident in a statement on Thursday.
He said the operation was led by the Area Commander of Aguata and supported by a joint security team comprising the Army, Navy, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and local vigilantes.
“Police operatives have taken over the scene of the alleged cult-related shooting.
Two victims, including a female, were rescued and are currently receiving treatment in a hospital. Unfortunately, two persons were killed, and two others were allegedly abducted,” Ikenga said.
According to eyewitnesses, the attackers—believed to be cult members—arrived on a motorcycle and a black Lexus 350 SUV without a license plate.
They reportedly began shooting indiscriminately at Total Junction before moving toward Tipper Junction, where two individuals were allegedly kidnapped.
A total of four persons were reportedly injured during the incident, including the rescued woman.
Ikenga urged residents to remain calm, assuring the public that security agencies are working with eyewitnesses and following leads from the crime scene to track down those responsible.
“The command is acting on credible intelligence and will ensure the perpetrators are apprehended and brought to justice,” he added.