The Bayelsa State Police Command has arrested 10 suspected cultists following a deadly attack in the Obele area of Ovom, Yenagoa, that left one person dead and three others injured.
The Commissioner of Police, Iyamah Daniel, announced the arrests on Tuesday during a briefing at the command headquarters in Yenagoa, saying the suspects were apprehended during a raid carried out after residents reported that armed cultists were terrorising the community.
According to the police, the suspects allegedly stormed the area at night, robbing residents of mobile phones and other valuables before confronting a group of metal scavengers, popularly known as “Iron Condemned” operators.
The scavengers reportedly resisted attempts to seize their phones, prompting the attackers to allegedly open fire.
One of the victims later died from gunshot wounds sustained during the attack, while three others suffered varying degrees of injuries.
Daniel said the operation was launched following a distress call from residents and resulted in the arrest of 10 suspects believed to be connected to the incident.
He assured residents that investigations are ongoing to identify and arrest other members of the suspected gang still on the run.
The commissioner urged members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with credible information, assuring that everyone responsible for the attack would be prosecuted.
A resident who witnessed the incident said the attackers had initially robbed residents before shooting the scavengers after they resisted handing over their mobile phones.
The latest arrests come as security agencies intensify efforts to tackle cult-related violence and violent crimes across Bayelsa State through intelligence-led operations and increased community engagement.
