Two killed as cult members clash in A’Ibom

Two suspected cult members have been killed in Oron Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State during a clash between two rival groups, Black Axe Confraternity and Vikings. It was learnt that Black Axe members attacked a Vikings member on September 26 to avenge the death of one of its member in 2008. It was gathered also that trouble started at a drinking spot when two members of the Black Axe sat with a girl suspected to have dealings with a member of Vikings. One of the eyewitnesses, who gave his name as Effiong, told our correspondent that the member of the Vikings beat up the girlfriend for sitting beside members of a rival group. This, it was learnt, infuriated the members of the Black Axe and hence, free-for-all broke out. According to the eyewitness, Vikings members later stormed the residence of the Black Axe member and shot one person dead. In retaliation, the Black Axe members regrouped and attacked their rivals, leading to the death of two members. Another source in the town said no fewer than four persons were killed in the attack. The Police Public Relations Officer, Mr. Etim Dickson, who confirmed the incident on Wednesday, said only two persons were killed. “Only two persons were killed and not four as being speculated in some quarters. We are in control of the situation. The culprits will not go unpunished,” he said.