Two persons have been confirmed dead following a violent confrontation between rival cult groups in Jato-Aka, Kwande Local Government Area of Benue State.
Spokesperson of the Benue Police Command, DSP Udeme Edet, said in a statement yesterday that members of the Red and Black confraternities engaged in a fierce exchange on Wednesday before security operatives restored order.
She said the police received a distress call around 10:30 a.m. and officers attached to the Jato-Aka Division moved swiftly to the scene.
“Two males were found lifeless while several others sustained injuries and were taken to nearby hospitals,” Edet stated.
Eight suspects were rounded up in connection with the incident.
Those arrested include Mvaater Adebo, Pineter Akurayati, Daniel Ese, Samuel Kwaghzer, Isaac Iorapul, Terungwa Tertese, Aondonenge Aper and Ternenge Aondokura.
In a separate operation the same day, operatives foiled a kidnap attempt targeting a hotelier in Zaki Biam, Ukum LGA.
According to the police, bandits opened fire on a patrol team deployed to the location, prompting officers to respond.
One suspect, later identified as Terkaa Samuel from Jandekyula in Taraba State, sustained gunshot wounds and died at the General Hospital, Zaki Biam.
Items recovered from both scenes include locally fabricated firearms, machetes, axes, live ammunition, an expended cartridge, and a bag allegedly containing charms.
The Command said manhunts have been launched for fleeing suspects from the Jato-Aka attack, while tactical teams are patrolling surrounding communities.
Commissioner of Police, Ifeanyi Emenari, assured residents that the Command remains resolute in curbing cult-related killings and criminality across the state.
He appealed to the public to report suspicious movements in their neighbourhoods.
The police also noted that no fewer than four suspected cult members were arrested in Gboko last week following another deadly confrontation.