Tension is rising in parts of Andoni Local Government Area of Rivers State amid fears of a return to widespread cult-related violence following renewed clashes between rival groups.

This was as two persons were shot dead in separate incidents linked to a supremacy battle between suspected members of the MEND and Iceland cult groups.

The killings, it was gathered occurred in Ngo community on Monday, December 15, 2025, and in Unyengala community on Sunday, December 14, 2025.

According to community sources, the violence is driven by an ongoing struggle for territorial control between the rival factions, raising concern among residents over deteriorating security in the area.

It was also gathered that another victim, identified simply as Prince, was shot dead in a different Andoni community last week.

Confirming the incident, the Public Relations Officer of the Rivers State Police Command, Superintendent of Police Grace Iringe-Koko, said two persons were killed while another sustained critical injuries.

SP Iringe-Koko added that security presence has been reinforced across the affected communities, while investigations have commenced to identify and arrest those responsible

She said, “Yes, I can confirm the incident. Two persons were killed and another person was critically injured.

“The killings are linked to a supremacy battle between two rival cult groups in the area.

“Security has been beefed up, and investigations are ongoing with a view to arresting members of the cult groups involved,” she added. (Daily Independent)