In a tragic incident on Sunday, suspected cultists believed to be loyal to the wanted kingpin, David Gift, allegedly carried out a violent attack resulting in the death of five individuals in the Odiemerenyi community, Ahoada East Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The assailants, reportedly members of the notorious Iceland cult group led by Gift, also known as “2 Baba,” have been linked to previous criminal activities, including the killing of Divisional Police Officer SP Bako Angbashin in Odumude community, Ahoada East LGA, in September 2023.Community
According to an anonymous source from the affected community, the suspected cultists infiltrated the area at approximately 1 a.m. on Sunday, targeting specific individuals. The assailants allegedly killed two of the source’s brothers and another person in his compound. The total death toll in the community reached five.
The source revealed that the cultists made additional demands, insisting on the release of certain chiefs currently in police custody before they would halt their violent activities.
Expressing fear and frustration, the source appealed to the state government and security agencies to intensify efforts in apprehending the wanted cultists. The community is reportedly living in constant fear due to the escalating violence.
“We are tired of crying about what is happening. It is like the government doesn’t know what to do. Let the government put more effort and help and set us free from these people because we are in pain,” the source pleaded.
Among the victims, one was identified as Obobula, also known as Bestman, while another was named Chibogu.
The spokesperson for the state police command, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, assured that she would communicate with the Divisional Police Officer for updates. However, as of the filing of this report on Sunday afternoon, there had been no response from the police spokesperson. The community remains on edge, calling for urgent action to address the escalating violence.