[News] Graphic: Five dead including a toddler as rival cult groups clash in Bayelsa community

Five persons, including a toddler died during a shoot-out between two rival cult groups at Lobia community in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State

Spokesperson of the State Police Command, SP Asinim Buswat, who confirmed the incident said four cultists were killed during the clash which happened in the ealy hours of Monday, December 28.

It was gathered that the two rampaging cult groups supposedly from Ukubie and Azuzuama communities clashed during the remembrance ceremony of one Chief Genesis at Lobia II community over a conflict that could not be immediately ascertained.

According to community sources, the toddler, said to be the son of one Mr Amos, an indigene of Lobia I,  was hit by a stray bullet. Three of the dead persons are from Ukubie and one from Azuzuama communities.

“Two rival cult gang clashed at Lobia community, Southern Ijaw Local Government Area on December 28, 2020 at about 0230 hours,” said SP Butswat.

“The unfortunate incident led to the death of four cultists. Their identities are yet to be ascertained at the moment. The corpses have been deposited at the morgue. Investigations have commenced.” he added.