Three persons have lost their lives following a violent clash between rival cult groups in Igbogene area of Yenagoa, the capital of Bayelsa State.
The incident, which occurred on Sunday night, threw residents into panic as sporadic gunshots echoed across parts of the community.
Although the identities of the victims had yet to be confirmed as of press time, eyewitnesses said the confrontation was linked to ongoing cult-related hostilities that have unsettled some parts of the state in recent weeks.
The sound of gunfire reportedly forced many residents to flee their homes, while commercial activities were abruptly suspended as people sought safety.
A resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisals, urged security agencies to heighten surveillance and patrols in the area to forestall further violence and restore normalcy.
The latest killings come amid a spate of cult clashes across the state. In separate incidents in recent weeks, no fewer than six persons were said to have been killed, heightening concerns over security.
When contacted, the spokesperson for the state Police Command, Musa Muhammed, confirmed the development.
“Yes, three persons lost their lives. Investigation has commenced and efforts are ongoing to track down and arrest the fleeing suspects,” he said.