An unknown group of hoodlums suspected to be cultists have stabbed and butchered a mentally challenged man to death in Awka, the capital city of Anambra State. 

The incident happened on Sunday when the man was at his favourite spot at Dike Park, near Zik Avenue in Awka Anambra state. 

The suspected cultists were said to have invaded the place and shot several times at the man before they stabbed and dismembered his body with sharp objects. 

The motive behind the man’s killing was unclear, but it was gathered that he was involved in cult-related activities before his mental illness started. 

The state police spokesman, DSP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the killing, stating that the divisional police officer of Central Police Station in Awka deployed men to the crime scene to prevent further breakdown in law and order. 

Mr Ikenga explained that the DPO immediately swung into action, retrieved the corpse, and deposited it in a morgue.

“I cannot confirm that the man was mad, but when the family comes for the corpse, we will be able to ascertain the mental health of the deceased,” Mr Ikenga said. 

He added, “For now, police are liaising with eyewitnesses to ensure that the perpetrators are tracked and arrested.”

Over the years, there has been a steep increase in cult-related killings and activities in Awka and its environs. 

The Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Aderemi Adeoye, has reiterated his resolve to stamp out cultists and their sponsors in the state.