Suspected Cultists Butcher 4 On Easter Sunday
At least, four persons were killed when armed men suspected to be cultists launched a deadly midnight attack on Easter Sunday in the Swali community of Yenagoa LGA, Bayelsa State.
Several other people were also injured during the attack.
Eyewitnesses say the attackers, masked and wielding AK-47 rifles, arrived in a Toyota Hilux and opened fire on residents who were celebrating Easter.
The unprovoked assault caused panic and forced many to flee the area.
It was also learnt that no properties were stolen during the incident, leading residents to believe the attack was not a robbery but a targeted shooting.
A resident, who pleaded anonymity described the incident as the worst he had seen for over ten years he had lived in the riverine suburb. Swali, home to the state capital’s largest market, the Swali Ultra Modern Market, situated near multiple security formations, but has long been known as a hotspot for rival cult clashes.
The member representing Yenagoa Constituency One in the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Chief Ayibanegiyefa Egba, condemned the attack, describing it as “barbaric.”
She visited the community and extended her condolences to the families of the victims and the entire Swali community.
Also reacting to the violence, the Paramount Ruler of Swali, HRH Wilcox Job, appealed to the state government to establish police posts at strategic locations to prevent future attacks.
He emphasized the community’s longstanding call for improved security presence in the area.
Bayelsa State Police spokesperson, Musa Mohammed, confirmed the attack and stated that security measures had been reinforced to restore calm.
He added that while the motive behind the shooting remains unclear, efforts are ongoing to prevent further violence and protect residents.
