A suspected cultist has been confirmed dead, and another arrested, following a violent cult clash in Umuahia, the Abia State capital, on Sunday.
The state government disclosed the development during a press briefing held after the State Executive Council meeting chaired by Governor Alex Otti.
Speaking at the briefing, the Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, described the incident as a “security breach involving cult groups.”
“According to police reports, a resident around Imo Lane off Uzuakoli Road was macheted by a cult group. The incident attracted the attention of Operation Crush following a tip-off by a patriotic resident. When officers arrived, the cult members fled,” Kanu stated.
He explained that in the process of trying to stop the fleeing suspects, officers from Operation Crush fired warning shots, which struck one of the cultists.
“In an attempt to stop them, Operation Crush fired warning shots, and one of the fleeing cultists was hit by a bullet,” he said.
“Another suspect was arrested and is currently in police custody, assisting with investigations,” he added.
Kanu noted that the machete victim is receiving treatment at a hospital, while the deceased’s body has been deposited in the morgue.
“Ordinarily, we would have waited for the police to conclude their investigations, but due to the fake news and misleading narratives spreading across certain media channels, we must clarify the situation.
“The claim that Operation Crush shot an innocent bystander is completely false,” the commissioner clarified.
The Senior Special Adviser to the Governor on Security Matters, Navy Commander MacDonald Ubah (retd.), also addressed the incident, providing more context on the affected areas.
“It was an unfortunate situation. That area around Uzuakoli Road is known for cult activity and armed robbery, often involving Keke riders. Other areas like School Road, behind the stadium, and Isi Gate also experience similar crimes,” Ubah stated.
He added that the arrested suspect was found with a locally made pistol and is currently being interrogated by the police.
“The arrested gang member was found in possession of a locally made pistol and remains in police custody. The police will conclude investigations and provide a full report. Operation Crush is an interventionist outfit; it does not conduct investigations,” he said.
Emphasizing the state government’s stance on security, Ubah assured residents of continuous efforts to maintain peace.
“Criminals have no hiding place in Abia. We will do everything possible to rid our society of bad elements and ensure residents can sleep with their eyes closed,” he concluded.
