Cult violence claims six lives in Edo

Indications have emerged that no fewer than six persons have been feared killed following renewed cult violence in parts of Edo State.

The Guardian learned that the killings were to mark the one-year anniversary of the killing of two rival leaders of Aye and Eiye confraternities.

In the renewed cult clash, six persons were reported dead on Tuesday at Nomayo junction, Aifuwa, and Three House area along Upper Sokponba Road in Ikpoba-Okha Council Area of the state.

During the clash, eyewitnesses said over 10 persons hid inside his shop at Three House junction, while some cult members were shooting sporadically in the area.

He said four persons were killed at the Third Junction, while others were killed in different parts of the state.

Consequently, policemen were sighted at the popular Third Junction arresting some suspected cult members, for which residents of the area accused the officers of arresting innocent traders and artisans.

When contacted over the incident, Edo State Commissioner of Police (CP), Lawal Dimeta, who confirmed the killings, said 15 suspects have been arrested, adding that the police were making attempts to restore calm in the area.

He said about five or six persons were killed in the cult clashes, warning those involved in the criminal activities to desist before the law catches up with them.