Toba Owojaiye Reporting
In a shocking and tragic incident, armed robbers launched a brazen attack on three banks in the broad daylight of a Friday afternoon, resulting in the loss of seven lives, including police officers, a banker, and a former councillor. The ordeal unfolded in Otukpo, Benue State, sending shockwaves throughout the community.
The audacious operation, which commenced at approximately 3:15 p.m., was marked by the use of dynamites to forcefully gain entry into the targeted banks. The robbers showed no mercy, leaving devastation in their wake.
The casualties included the Otukpo Divisional Police Officer, John Adikwu, policewoman identified as Emmanuella Ankyo along with 3 other police officers, a male banker , Emmanuel Uche and a former councillor.
Uche was newly-employed by UBA and joined the bank about a week ago.
The victim hailed from Abia State. He reportedly finished the mandatory national service earlier this year.
The robbers began their attack by targeting the local police station before proceeding to raid the banks, sparking a chaotic scene with sporadic gunshots that alerted residents and passersby to the impending danger.
The banks robbed in this heist were United Bank for Africa (UBA), Zenith Bank, and First Bank Plc. Shockingly, the robbers operated without facing resistance from security personnel since they had already attacked the police station. As they made their escape, the robbers threw naira notes in the air before departing in two Hilux vehicles and one car.
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, strongly condemned this violent armed robbery, describing it as an assault on the principles of peace, security, and justice that the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies tirelessly work to uphold. He extended his heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims affected by this senseless act of violence.
The IGP assured the public that every resource and effort would be dedicated to ensuring the swift apprehension and justice for the assailants, noting that two of the suspects were gunned down by operatives during a hot chase.
In response to the grave incident, the Nigeria Police Force initiated a comprehensive and coordinated effort to bring the perpetrators of this heinous crime to justice. The IGP ordered the deployment of additional operational and investigative assets and resources to Otukpo, the Benue State Command, and surrounding states to assist in the swift apprehension of the other fleeing criminals responsible for this atrocity.
The violent armed robbery in Otukpo has not only claimed lives but also shaken the community to its core. The resolve of law enforcement and the community to bring the perpetrators to justice remains unwavering, with hopes that this tragedy will lead to stronger security measures in the region.
In this dire situation, the authorities, the police, and the people of Otukpo stand united against the forces of lawlessness, committed to restoring peace and security in the aftermath of this harrowing incident.