This weekly update highlights gang violence in the Niger Delta with a focus on cult and gang related killings in Akwa Ibom State. According to data (see map above), cult and gang related violence caused over 100 fatalities in Akwa Ibom State between January 2021 and March 2023. Latest incidents indicate a resurgence of cult and gang related killings in the State, largely driven by battles for supremacy and territorial control among rival cult gangs. In December 2022, for instance, five persons were reportedly killed and many others injured during clashes between rival cult gangs at a sport betting center along Ikot Ekpene Road in Uyo, the state capital. In January, 2023, six persons were reportedly injured during a series of clashes between rival cult gags at different locations in Uyo. More recently, on May 09, 2023, about 15 persons were reportedly killed and several properties destroyed in a series of clashes between the Black Axe and the Klaans cult gangs over the control of a motor park in Nwaniba community, Uruan LGA. Members of the two rival cult gangs allegedly clashed over the collection of levies in the motor park.
The post Niger Delta Weekly Conflict Update: May 07-13, 2023 appeared first on PIND Foundation.
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