Families are now living in fear despite assurances from security agencies, Â guarantying adequate protection.
This fear, according to a native who spoke to Africa Update on condition of anonymity,  is due to the gruesome murder of more than 8 persons and rape of girls, during the annual Nwantam cultural play on New year’s day.
The assailants had purportedly invaded the arena to perpetuate their heinous act.
One of the victims was burnt to ashes, while 7 others were killed at Unyeada community in Andoni Local Government Area of Rivers State.
Though operatives of the Special Anti Kidnapping Squad (SARS), intervened, to restore peace to Unyeada, Â Asarama and Egendem communities , one officer was injured during the gun battle.
Africa Update further gathered that the cultists who invaded the communities through the sea, were confronted by a rival cult group and the 3 speedboats conveying the cultists sunk as a result of fierce gun battle that ensued afterwards.
Unconfirmed number of cultists were said to have drowned.
