The Bayelsa State Police Command has arrested 10 suspected cultists in connection with the killing of a metal scavenger and left three others injured in Yenagoa, the state capital.
The arrests followed a security operation launched after residents of Obele area in Ovom community, alerted the police that armed cultists were attacking people, shooting indiscriminately and robbing residents of their phones and other valuables.
Bayelsa State Commissioner of Police, Iyamah Daniel, disclosed the development on Tuesday, saying the suspects were apprehended during a raid carried out in response to the distress calls.
According to the police, preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects allegedly stormed the community at night, robbing residents before confronting a group of metal scavengers.
The scavengers reportedly resisted attempts by the attackers to seize their mobile phones, leading to a violent confrontation.
A security source said the armed suspects allegedly opened fire after the scavengers refused to surrender their phones.
“The attackers were on a massive raid. Many residents were caught unawares, while others ran into their homes for safety. The ‘Iron Condemned’ boys resisted handing over their phones, and the cultists began shooting,” the source said.
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One of the victims later died in hospital from gunshot injuries, while three others sustained varying degrees of injuries and are receiving treatment.
Commissioner of Police Daniel reaffirmed the command’s determination to stamp out cult-related violence and other criminal activities across Bayelsa State.
He urged residents to remain vigilant and continue providing timely information to security agencies, stressing that public cooperation remains essential to effective policing.
The police chief also assured that all those found culpable in the Obele attack would be prosecuted in accordance with the law.
