The Egbema clan, an oil producing community in Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area of Imo State, was at the weekend engulfed in a crisis.

Not fewer than six people were feared killed.

The clash, according to an eyewitness, was between two rival cult groups known as Degbam and Dewell, which had been terrorising the community for years over who should be in charge of the royalties accruing from the oil companies.

The source said fight started at 6am on Sunday when a faction of the group invaded Obiakpu community with weapons, shooting for hours.

Among those feared killed was a chief, Emmanuel Opara a.k.a Akurulo of Egbema, and another man and his son, who were killed at Mmahu community.

Police spokesman Andrew Enwerem confirmed the incident, saying six suspects were arrested.

He said one of the suspects, who was arrested with bullet wounds, died later, while the remaining five are in their custody. Enwerem said investigation is ongoing.

•Adapted from a Nation report. Photo shows Imo State Police Commissioner, Abdulmajid Ali.