A violent clash between rival cult groups in Ondo town, Ondo State, claimed the lives of four individuals on Tuesday evening.
The attack occurred in multiple locations, including Ife Garage, Sabo, and Christ Land in the Oka area, where the victims were reportedly shot by masked assailants believed to be members of a rival cult group.
According to eyewitness accounts, three individuals believed to be members of the Eiye confraternity were killed in the Ife Garage area, while another victim was gunned down in front of a local shop popularly known as “Mama Shop” in the Sabo area.
The spokesperson for the Ondo State Police Command, SP Olayinka Ayanlade, confirmed the incident, stating that the victims were identified as members of cult groups and had been on the police command’s wanted list.
“The command can confirm the murder of four people and five others injured, all of whom are linked to cult-related activities. We urge members of the public to remain calm and go about their lawful activities.
Security agencies are fully deployed to maintain peace and order,” Ayanlade said.
Following the killings, the police launched a raid on Wednesday morning in the New Garage and Ayeyemi areas of Ondo in a bid to apprehend suspects linked to the clash.
“Desperate times require desperate actions,” Ayanlade stated. “Anyone arrested during the operation has connections to the incident.
Our officers acted within the law, and if any misconduct is found, disciplinary measures will be taken. However, when they act appropriately, they deserve public support.”