The Rivers State Police Command has foiled an alleged cult attack on a trader at a market in the Mile 3 area of Port Harcourt, preventing the assailants from carrying out their planned operation.
The command’s spokesperson, ASP Blessing Agabe, confirmed the incident on Monday, saying officers from the Nkpolu Police Division responded swiftly after receiving a distress call.
“Upon receiving a distress alert, the police division mobilised officers to the scene and foiled the attack before the assailants could execute their mission,” Agabe said.
She explained that security personnel had taken control of the area while a manhunt was launched for the fleeing suspects.
The police spokesperson added that efforts were underway to identify the suspected cult group involved and establish contact with the trader who was targeted.
According to her, the victim also escaped when police arrived at the scene.
Agabe assured residents that a detailed investigation would be conducted and that those behind the incident would be brought to justice.
She urged members of the public to provide useful information that could assist security agencies in tracking down the suspects.
The incident reportedly occurred around 7:30 a.m. on Monday at a market along Bishop Okoye Street.
Witnesses said about eight suspected cult members allegedly surrounded a trader identified as Abraham, who operates a grinding business in the market.
An eyewitness, Janet, claimed the attackers were armed with machetes and a locally made pistol, alleging that the trader sustained multiple injuries before police intervention forced the suspects to flee.
She further alleged that the attack might have been connected to the trader’s refusal to pay an illegal levy, popularly known as “marching ground”, allegedly demanded by suspected cult groups operating in the area.
The victim reportedly escaped from the scene after sustaining injuries during the attack.
