The cult in the game I'm MCing got pretty well annihilated by the Chopper's gang. I decided to have them faction off into groups that were recovering from brainwashing (sort of a gift to my Brainer). One of the groups approached the camp the PCs reside at with a chest full of much needed medical supplies. They sought food and shelter. The Chopper and Operator decided to murder them outright and take their stuff.
What they're going to find out is that that group was full of useful, real people. Next time the operator's jeep breaks down, they'll go looking for a mechanic and find the only one around was part of that group. Don't take away their success, they've earned it. Instead, make it consequential.
Good stuff :)