In a disturbing incident that unfolded on Friday in the heart of Awka, the capital of Anambra State, two individuals, believed to be affiliated with rival cult groups, were reportedly feared dead following a violent clash.According to eyewitness accounts, the confrontation transpired around 11 a.m. at the bustling Ukwuoji Bus Stop, situated along the prominent Zik’s Avenue in Awka. The exact motive behind the attack remains unclear, as authorities continue their investigation into the matter. However, it was reported that a group of armed cultists descended upon the area, discharging their firearms into the air, triggering pandemonium among residents.In response to this brazen act of aggression, their adversaries swiftly retaliated, plunging the vicinity into chaos as frightened individuals sought safety, desperately fleeing the scene. The sound of gunshots reverberated through the air, instigating panic and leaving a trail of uncertainty in its wake. One eyewitness, who preferred to remain anonymous due to safety concerns, offered a harrowing account of the events, stating, “Approximately five hoodlums arrived in a vehicle with tinted windows, launching an audacious assault by firing shots indiscriminately. In the ensuing turmoil, two individuals were tragically struck by the bullets before the assailants made a hasty getaway. Other members of their group managed to escape.”The Anambra State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Tochukwu Ikenga, was contacted for official confirmation and clarification regarding the reported fatalities. Although declining to confirm any deaths, Ikenga acknowledged the occurrence of gunfire in the area. He disclosed that the police had promptly responded to the incident, intensifying patrols throughout Awka in direct response to the alarming sounds of gunshots at Ukwuoji Bus Stop. Further details from eyewitnesses on-site suggested a connection to cult-related activities, adding a disconcerting layer to the investigation.In a statement issued by the police, it was revealed that armed robbers had targeted the residence of Alhaji Gidado Muhammad Sani at Arawa Quarters. In a terrifying ordeal, the assailants brazenly fired their weapons and proceeded to rob the household of its valuable belongings. During the confrontation, Mohammed Abdullahi, a security personnel assigned to the residence, sustained injuries to his head, left hand, and back.Law enforcement officers swiftly intervened upon receiving the distress call, engaging the armed robbers in a fierce gun battle. Consequently, one of the assailants, known as Alias Albaru, was neutralized. Additionally, three individuals, identified as Adamu Usman (alias Bali, 22), Mustapha Abdullahi (alias Jammaye, 22), and Abdullahi Hussaini (alias Danbasi, 21), were apprehended. Meanwhile, six other suspects managed to escape, potentially carrying bullet wounds. Authorities have commenced efforts to track down these fugitives, while also recovering some of the stolen items as evidence.The incident has left the community in shock and underscored the urgent need for measures to address the menace of cultism and armed robbery within the state. Residents of Awka now await further updates from the police as the investigation into these alarming incidents unfolds.