17 arrested over killing of graduates in Bayelsa cult clash

Bayelsa State police has arrested 17 suspects in connection with the brutal killing of two recent graduates of Niger Delta University, Amassoma, amid a resurgence of cult-related violence in the state.

The arrests were made Friday night along the Tombia-Amassoma Road by the Rapid Response Squad (RRS), led by CSP Bishop Elemide, during a routine stop-and-search operation.

Among those apprehended are four suspected internet fraudsters, commonly known as Yahoo Boys, who are alleged to have financed the attacks.

A police source disclosed that the arrests followed an alert about the killings, which took place in the Gbarantoru area near Amassoma Road.

Officers stopped a Suzuki mini-bus carrying 13 young men, some of whom had bloodstains on their clothing. Bloodied machetes were also discovered inside the vehicle.

Investigations revealed that the suspects had arrived at the crime scene in two vehicles. One broke down during their escape, forcing them to cram into a single mini-bus that was later intercepted by the police.

Preliminary findings suggest the suspects are affiliated with the Vikings confraternity, and that the attack may have been sponsored by the four alleged Yahoo Boys.

Bayelsa State Police Command spokesperson, Musa Mohammed, confirmed the arrests and stated that investigations are ongoing to determine each suspect’s level of involvement.

Conflicting reports have emerged about the identities of the slain victims. Some sources claim they were members of the Neo Black Movement (Black Axe), while others allege they belonged to the Bobos cult group.

The killings have triggered panic across Yenagoa, with members of the Vikings group reportedly going into hiding to evade possible retaliation.

Residents report increased sightings of suspected cultists around bars and public places. Over the past week, Yenagoa has experienced multiple incidents of sporadic gunfire, believed to be linked to ongoing turf wars between rival cult groups.

On Sunday morning, a deadly clash between two gangs at the Swali Ultra-Modern Market left one person dead. While some witnesses attributed the gunfire to police officers pursuing suspects in unmarked vehicles, others insisted it was a continuation of cult violence.

A senior police officer said that Bayelsa State Commissioner of Police, Francis Idu, is leading efforts to restore peace. Authorities have warned against political interference, and assured that all arrested suspects will be prosecuted.

“The command is working tirelessly to end the violence and ensure justice is served,” the officer stated.

The Star