Four people have been killed and five others injured in cult-related clashes in Ondo town, headquarters of Ondo West Local Council Area of Ondo State.

The incidents occurred on Tuesday night around Ife Garage, Sabo, and Christ Land in the Oka area of the town.

Sources revealed that masked men, believed to be members of a rival cult group, shot three members of the Eiye confraternity at close range at Ife Garage. Another victim was killed at Sabo, in front of a local shop popularly known as “Mama Shop.”

The clashes have heightened tension in the ancient town, with residents fearing possible retaliation from other cult groups affected by the violence.

Confirming the incident, police spokesperson Olayinka Ayanlade described the deceased as “notorious cult members who had been on the police wanted list.”

He said: “The command can confirm the murder of four people and five injured, all of whom belong to one cult group or the other. I want to appeal to members of the community to go about their lawful businesses without fear or panic. Security agencies are on the ground to protect lives and property.”

Ayanlade further disclosed that security operatives had raided parts of the town on Wednesday, leading to some arrests.

“Desperate times require desperate actions. Anyone arrested during the raid has one or two things to do with the clash. Our men have acted rightly, and if any of them are found to have acted wrongly, they will face disciplinary action. But if they have done the right thing, people should commend them,” he added.

The police confirmed that additional arrests are ongoing, and officers have been deployed to various parts of the town to maintain peace.