Two persons have reportedly been killed in a violent clash between rival cult groups in Ikom Local Council of Cross River State.
The conflict, involving members of the KK and Vikings confraternities, erupted last week according to sources.
The violence escalated with the killing of one person on July 12, followed by another fatal attack on Wednesday night, July 16.
One other victim is reportedly in critical condition.
The first victim was murdered in Okuni community, while the second killing occurred in Akam, both within the Olulumo Ward of Ikom Local Council.
“It’s a clash between the KK and Vikings confraternities. The Vikings have killed two Klan members. The first killing happened at about 10:00 p.m. on Saturday in Okuni, and the second occurred on Wednesday night in Akam,” a source in the community said.
The source further disclosed that one person is currently hospitalised, adding, “This is the first time we are witnessing cult-related deaths in Olulumo land.”
Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Cross River State Command, SP Irene Ugbo-Obase, said the Command promptly deployed a tactical team to the area to contain the situation.
“We are aware of the incident. The Commissioner of Police, Rashid Afegbua, immediately dispatched a tactical team to the area. They are already on the ground and have stabilised the situation,” Ugbo-Obase stated.
She noted that Ikom had remained relatively calm in recent times due to sustained efforts to curb cultism in the area. “We have successfully suppressed cult activities in Ikom in the past, and we will ensure that those behind the killings are arrested and brought to justice,” she assured.
