A violent cult clash erupted in Ondo Town, the headquarters of Ondo Local Government Area in Ondo State, leaving four people dead and five others critically injured. The brutal confrontation, which occurred on Tuesday, May 27, unfolded across multiple locations including Ife Garage, Sabo, and Christ Land in the Oka area, sending shockwaves through the community.
Eyewitness Accounts: Gunmen Strike in Broad Daylight
According to eyewitness reports, the victims were ambushed and gunned down by masked assailants believed to be members of a rival cult group. Three individuals were reportedly killed at Ife Garage, while another was fatally shot at Sabo, right in front of a popular local shop known as “Mama Shop.”
The area descended into chaos as residents fled the scene amid heavy gunfire. “People were running everywhere. It was terrifying,” a witness said.
Police Confirm Casualties, Identify Deceased as Wanted Cultists
The Ondo State Police Command has confirmed the deadly incident. In a statement, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Olayinka Ayanlade, disclosed that the four deceased individuals were known members of rival cult groups and had been on the police watchlist.
“The command can confirm the murder of four individuals and injuries to five others. All the victims are suspected cultists engaged in an ongoing gang rivalry,” SP Ayanlade stated.
He urged residents to remain calm, assuring that security personnel have been deployed to restore order and safeguard lives and property.
Police Raid Hideouts, Arrest Suspects
In response to the killings, police operatives carried out a pre-dawn raid on Wednesday, May 28, targeting suspected cultist hideouts in areas such as New Garage and Ayeyemi. Several arrests were made, though the number of suspects in custody has not been disclosed.
SP Ayanlade defended the operation, emphasizing the urgency of the situation:
“Desperate times require desperate actions. Anyone apprehended during the raid is linked to the recent violence. If any officer stepped outside legal bounds, we will act accordingly, but those who acted lawfully deserve commendation.”
Security Tightened in Flashpoint Areas
A significant increase in police presence has been observed in high-risk zones, particularly New Garage and Ayeyemi—areas believed to house one of the cult factions involved. Patrol teams and undercover operatives have been deployed to monitor activities and prevent further unrest.
The police have vowed to bring those responsible to justice and curb the resurgence of cult-related violence in the area.
Residents Call for Government Action
Community leaders and residents have called on both state and local governments to intervene and address the root causes of cultism, especially among the youth. Many are urging for rehabilitation programs, community policing strategies, and youth engagement initiatives to prevent a repeat of such tragedies.
