Tuesday, 15th June 2021: The dreaded Bakassi Boys, a vigilance group in the South East, have returned to some parts of Awka, the Anambra State capital, years after they were disbanded.

They were seen in two vans, singing and warning criminals.

However, it could not be confirmed who invited the dreaded vigilante group.

When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Ikenga Tochukwu, said he was not aware of the development.

Tochukwu said: “I received this as information from you.

“I don’t have any such details before me.

“Meanwhile, I will make enquires please.”

Asked whether the police would be ready to work with such a group to stem insecurity in the state, the PPRO said: “We are ready to work with any stakeholder in security.”

A source, however, said: “The boys came mainly for alleged cult groups which have taken over Awka town in recent time without any response from the police.

“I think they were invited by traders.”

The Bakassi Boys are usually armed with machetes and guns, and an array of black magic amulets worn around their body.

They have been accused of extrajudicial killings.

Their targets are suspected petty thieves, armed robbers, ritual killers, murderers, corrupt persons, and generally anyone considered evil.