A man, identified as Igwe Omeli, was tragically killed on Wednesday in a violent conflict between two rival cult groups at Eke Awka market, a bustling location in Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State.
Witnesses say the rival groups, known as Baga and Aye, were engaged in a struggle for control over the market.
Omeli believed to be a leader of the Aye group, often enforced compliance with certain market rules and levies among traders.
The event prompted a panic in the market, as traders arriving for the day’s business quickly fled for safety.
A market source, who requested anonymity for safety reasons, confirmed the clash and the chilling actions of the assailants.
The source said, “After killing Omeli, they beheaded him and also mutilated him.
“Further bloodshed was averted as the members of the rival cult group had fled before the deceased group members arrived at the scene.”
The source also revealed that this was not the first incident of its kind. Just weeks ago, another individual was killed in a clash between the same groups.
DSP Ikenga Tochukwu, a police spokesman for the state, confirmed the incident and assured the public that police activities in the area have been ramped up.
“The police operatives have intensified surveillance operations in the area and the investigation is ongoing. No arrest yet. More information will be communicated later,” Ikenga stated.
