About 10 persons have reportedly been killed while two others sustained serious injuries when two rival cult groups engaged themselves in a supremacy battle in Ilorin, Kwara State capital.

Already, the state police command has arrested two suspected cultists in connection with the incident.

Checks revealed that the incident was said to have taken place at the Post Office and Maraba areas of Ilorin.

It was gathered that the supremacy battle between the two rival cult groups was said to have claimed four persons at Maraba area on Saturday while six persons were said to have lost their lives at Post Office area on Sunday night.

The development, it was further learnt, has caused serious tension among the residents of Ilorin.

Contacted, the state Police Commissioner, Mr. Adekimi Ojo, who confirmed the incident on Monday, said: “A tragic shooting incident that occurred at about 9:00 p.m. on Sunday, 14th June, 2026, in the Post Office area of Ilorin, resulting in the death of four persons and gunshot injuries to two others.

He said that, “Reports indicate that a group of armed hoodlums, numbering about five, stormed a shanty bamboo bar along the railway and opened fire on individuals gathered at the location before fleeing the scene.

“Police operatives promptly responded to the distress call and rushed the victims to the Police Clinic.

“Regrettably, four of the victims were confirmed dead by medical personnel, while two others are currently receiving treatment.”

Ojo added, “Preliminary findings indicate that the incident is cult-related; comprehensive investigations led to the arrest of two suspected members of a notorious and deadly cult group linked to the attack.

“The suspects are currently in custody and are providing useful information to assist ongoing investigations and facilitate the identification and apprehension of other members of the criminal gang.

“Tactical, intelligence, and covert assets have been fully mobilised to track down every individual connected to the crime, with a firm commitment that all suspects will be arrested and made to face the full wrath of the law.”

Adekimi therefore condemned this senseless act of violence and criminality.

He said that the command viewed the incident as a grave threat to public peace and safety and will not relent until all those responsible are apprehended and prosecuted in accordance with the law.

He also extended its heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased and wished the injured victims a speedy recovery.

He urged members of the public to remain calm and cooperate with the police by providing credible information that may assist ongoing investigations.

He reassured residents that every necessary measure is being taken to prevent a recurrence of such incidents. (THISDAY)

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