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ABIA, Nigeria - A suspected cultist was shot dead while another was apprehended following a violent cult clash in Umuahia, Abia State, on Sunday, the state government confirmed on Monday.
The incident, described as a “security breach involving cult groups,” was disclosed during a press briefing by the state’s Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, following a State Executive Council meeting chaired by Governor Alex Otti.
Kanu explained that the clash occurred near Imo Lane off Uzuakoli Road, where a resident was attacked and macheted by suspected cult members. He noted that the violent act prompted a swift response from “Operation Crush,” a special security unit, after a tip-off from a concerned resident.
“According to police reports, a resident around Imo Lane off Uzuakoli Road was macheted by a cult group.
The incident attracted the attention of Operation Crush following a tip-off by a patriotic resident. When officers arrived, the cult members fled,” Kanu said.
“In an attempt to stop them, Operation Crush fired warning shots, and one of the fleeing cultists was hit by a bullet,” he added.
Another suspect was arrested during the operation and is currently in police custody, assisting with investigations. The machete attack victim is receiving treatment at a hospital, while the body of the deceased cultist has been deposited in a morgue.
Kanu also addressed circulating reports claiming that an innocent bystander was shot during the incident, describing such narratives as false and misleading.
“Ordinarily, we would have waited for the police to conclude their investigations, but due to the fake news and misleading narratives spreading across certain media channels, we must clarify the situation. The claim that Operation Crush shot an innocent bystander is completely false,” he stressed.
Adding further context, the Senior Special Adviser to the Governor on Security Matters, retired Navy Commander MacDonald Ubah, described the area around Uzuakoli Road as a hotspot for cult activity and petty crime, often involving tricycle (Keke) operators.
“It was an unfortunate situation. That area around Uzuakoli Road is known for cult activity and armed robbery, often involving Keke riders. Other areas like School Road, behind the stadium, and Isi Gate also experience similar crimes,” Ubah said.
He confirmed that the arrested suspect was found with a locally made pistol and is still in police custody. Ubah clarified that while Operation Crush is not responsible for investigations, it plays a vital role in rapid intervention and enforcement.
“Operation Crush is an interventionist outfit; it does not conduct investigations,” he stated.
Ubah reaffirmed the Otti administration’s commitment to public safety, warning that criminal elements would find no refuge in Abia State.
“Criminals have no hiding place in Abia. We will do everything possible to rid our society of bad elements and ensure residents can sleep with their eyes closed,” he concluded.
