Tragedy struck on Monday when a 16-year-old boy, identified simply as Mustapha, was killed by a stray bullet during a suspected cult clash in the Oyingbo area of Ebute Metta, Lagos State.

PUNCH Metro learnt that the incident occurred during a peace walk organised by some youths to address rising cult-related violence in the community.

It was gathered that the walk had just concluded when an argument broke out among them.

A resident, who spoke to our correspondent on the condition of anonymity, said the argument degenerated as a suspected cultist pulled out a firearm and shot indiscriminately, leading to Mustapha getting hit by a stray bullet.

Another resident told PUNCH Metro that the teenager was not affiliated with any cult group.

“Mustapha just came out to support the walk. He was not part of any gang. He is a calm and respectful boy. He was taken to the hospital after the bullet hit him but he died on the way,” the source said.

The incident was said to have caused panic in the community, while the event ended abruptly.

Meanwhile, our correspondent learnt that one of the organisers, who was hit by a bullet, is currently in critical condition.

The state Police Public Relations Officer could not be reached for a reaction as calls made to his telephone were not responded to.

A text message sent to him had yet to be replied to as of the time this report was filed.

It would be recalled that PUNCH Metro reported that tension gripped the Idimu area of Lagos State on Sunday after residents discovered the bodies of two men, one of whom had been beheaded in a cult-related attack.

PUNCH Metro learnt that the killings occurred late Saturday night, but the corpses were only discovered on Sunday morning along Oladun Road.

This also drew the attention of stunned residents and passersby who gathered around the bodies.

(The PUNCH)