A conflict between competing cult groups at the well-known Eke Awka market in the Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State resulted in the shooting death of one individual, Igwe Omeli.
It was learned that the incident took place on Wednesday morning during a conflict between opposing cult groups over control of the famous market.
The deceased was thought to be one of the market’s Aye cult leaders, who was employed to coerce traders into paying levies and adhering to other rules and regulations.
As traders hurried to safety on their way to their respective stores, the incident spread panic across the marketplace.
The conflict in the market was between the Baga and Aye cult groups, according to a source who requested anonymity out of concern for their safety.
According to the witnesses, the dead was beheaded and had his manhood severed after being killed.
He said, “The clash is related to market politics, but the man killed was the person they always used in terrorising us to comply with certain agenda. Any time the leaders want to enforce any agenda, he is the person and others they used.
“The Baga cult group members were pursuing Omeli and he ran into the market to mobilise his boys to rescue him unfortunately for him, before his boys could get the information, they killed him and beheaded him and cut his male organ.
“He was killed inside the market at the abattoir area and the cult members cut his head and male organ with the butcher’s knives. Further bloodshed was averted as the members of the rival cult group had fled before the deceased group members arrive at the scene.”
The source also disclosed that a few weeks ago, one person was also killed during a clash between the same rival groups.
When contacted the state Police spokesman, DSP Ikenga Tochukwu, confirmed the incident, saying the police operatives have intensified operations in the area.
“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 added.
