Gunmen Suspected to Be Cultists unalived Four in Bayelsa Community

 

Four people have been killed in an attack by gunmen suspected to be cultists in the Swali community of Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.

According to a community source who spoke to Daily Trust on Tuesday, April 22, the assailants entered the community via the nearby river on Sunday, April 20, 2025. The victims, mostly innocent residents, had just returned from Easter celebrations at their churches when they were attacked.

Several others sustained injuries during the incident, and many residents have since fled the area, fearing a possible follow-up attack.

Swali is home to Bayelsa State’s largest market and a busy waterfront that connects travelers to other parts of the state. The area is also located close to the government house.

Bayelsa State Police Command spokesman, DSP Musa Mohammed, confirmed the incident and stated that security forces had been deployed to restore calm. While he noted that the attack might not be linked directly to cult violence, authorities are taking steps to prevent any further disturbances.

One of the victims has been identified as Comrade Agada Bonkien, a former Public Relations Officer of the National Union of Epie-Attissa Students.