Bayelsa Police Nab 10 Suspected Cultists After Fatal Ovom Attack

The Bayelsa State Police Command has successfully apprehended ten individuals suspected of cultism following a violent incident in the Obele area of Ovom, Yenagoa. This attack tragically resulted in the death of a metal scavenger, widely known as an “Iron Condemned” operator, and left three other persons with injuries.

Commissioner of Police for Bayelsa State, Iyamah Daniel, confirmed these arrests during a press briefing held on Tuesday at the command's headquarters in Yenagoa. Daniel explained that the suspects were taken into custody during a police raid that was initiated after residents reported armed cultists operating in the vicinity. These cultists were reportedly shooting indiscriminately and dispossessing people of their mobile phones and other valuables.

The police chief further elaborated that the suspects allegedly invaded the Obele community under the cover of night, robbing residents of their possessions. They subsequently encountered a group of metal scavengers who resisted their demands. According to sources who spoke with PUNCH Online, the scavengers' refusal to surrender their mobile phones prompted the attackers to open fire. One of the victims later succumbed to gunshot wounds in the hospital, while three others sustained various degrees of injuries.

Commissioner Daniel stated, “Ten suspected cultists have been arrested following a raid prompted by a distress call from residents alleging that armed cultists were on the rampage in the Obele area of Yenagoa.” He added that investigations are currently underway to identify and apprehend other members of the gang who are still at large.

He urged the public to “remain vigilant and continue to cooperate with the police by providing credible information. Those responsible for this attack will be brought to justice.” A resident, who wished to remain anonymous, corroborated the sequence of events, saying, “The attackers were robbing residents of their phones and valuables. The ‘Iron Condemned’ boys resisted handing over their phones, and the gunmen opened fire on them.” Daniel reiterated the police's commitment to ensuring that all individuals involved in the attack are arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.