Delta community worries over renewed cult attacks

From Osakhare Erese, Asaba

Alleged renewed attack by cultists currently operating in Okpanam community in Delta State has unsettled its residents who are at present, seeking the aid of security agents.
Mr. Jones Afamefua, one of the leaders in the community alleged that in the last few days some youths suspected to be members of a cult group had “shift down” a night in the area after they allegedly attacked the operator of the club house with broken bottles.
They said to have allegedly shot sporadically into the air until the security agents moved into the scene and the fled.
Besides, these same suspected cultists had also allegedly beaten a man (name withheld) to stupor around the Okpanam Square after they had serious disagreement and allegedly shot him on his leg before he was taken to the hospital by a good Samaritan.
Also speaking to our reporter, a parent who did not want his name in the print said: “some days ago some suspected cultists invaded my house at night and destroyed my properties for no reasons adduced” disclosing that he had reported the incident to the police who are currently investigating the act.
Investigation had revealed that Okpanam community had been under siege of cult related activities, a situation elders/leaders of the community petitioned the police to come to their aid.
In the petition, signed by over seven elders, a copy made available to our reporter, they requested the police for 24 hours patrol team in the area as the only way to ensure the community’s residents sleep with their two eyes closed.
But in a swift reaction, the police commissioner in the state, Mr. Zanna Ibrahim, said several persons in connection with cult activities have been arrested in the community the recent times, adding that investigation was ongoing.
He said that the police will bring to book those behind the continued attack on Okpanam residents
Mr. Frank Ikeji, secretary-General of Ogwashi-Uku Development Association (ODA) who spoke to our reporter blamed the situation on insufficient security personnel to checkmate the activities of hoodlums in the community.