Nine killed in Anambra as cult groups clash

No fewer than nine persons were killed on Sunday in Awka the Anambra State capital as rival cult groups clash.

It was gathered that the fracas started brewing during the state’ s annual cultural festival , known as ‘ Imo Awka ’ which was celebrated the penultimate week.

According to a source , who pleaded anonymity , the cult groups had threatened to attack themselves during the festival over undisclosed reasons.

The source said , ” The reasons for the cult killing and counter-killings were not immediately ascertained but lifeless bodies of people alleged to be cult members liter different quarters in Awka eliciting tears from families of victims.

“ Four were killed around Eke Awka , three killed around Nkwelle Awka , while one was killed around Regina Caeli Hospital Awka

“ On the Imo Awka festival , two cultists were fighting in front of Isiagu junction , Amikwo , Awka and threatening themselves .

The police in the state confirmed the incident, saying that those involved in the killing would be brought to book.

A statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer in the State , Haruna Mohammed read in part, ” The Command has embarked on an aggressive manhunt for the perpetrators of these dastardly acts following actionable intelligence received about their hideouts .

“ So far over eleven notorious confessed suspects have been arrested by both the Special Anti Cult Unit and the special Anti- robbery Squad.