One person was killed and another arrested following a cult clash in Umuahia, Abia State, on Sunday, according to the Abia State Government.
The clash occurred around Imo Lane off Uzuakoli Road and led to the intervention of the state’s security outfit, Operation Crush.
Briefing journalists after the State Executive Council meeting on Monday, Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, said the violence was triggered by a cult group attack in the area.
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“A resident was macheted by a cult group. The incident attracted the attention of Operation Crush following a tip-off. When officers arrived, the cultists fled.
“In an attempt to stop them, warning shots were fired, and one of the fleeing cultists was hit,” Kanu stated.
He added that one suspect was arrested and is currently in police custody, aiding ongoing investigations.
The machete victim is receiving treatment, while the deceased’s body has been taken to the morgue.
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Addressing misinformation on the incident, Kanu said, “The claim that Operation Crush shot an innocent bystander is completely false.”
The Senior Special Adviser to the Governor on Security Matters, Navy Commander MacDonald Ubah (retd.), also spoke at the briefing.
“That area is known for cult activity and robbery, often involving Keke riders. The arrested suspect had a locally made pistol. Operation Crush only intervenes in violent crime; it does not conduct investigations,” he explained.
Ubah reassured residents of the government’s resolve: “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.”
The government stressed that investigations are ongoing and promised a full report once the police conclude their findings.
