From Our Correspondent
Several residents sustained injuries yesterday, as armed robbers attacked Okung Estate in Ifa Atai Etoi village in Uyo Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.
Sources in the community said the attack was carried out in the early hours of yesterday by an armed robbery gang terrorising the area.
The robbers, numbering about 15, invaded the community, attacking residents house-to-house, leaving several injured with gunshot and machete wounds. Among the victims was a woman identified as Mrs Bassey, who suffered a gunshot injury, and a night guard, Victor, who received machete cuts on his head.
Residents reported that the robbers made away with valuables such as laptops, cash, mobile phones and iPads.
Chairman of the Landlords Association, Dr Nsima Andy, confirmed the incident and said it had been reported to Shelter Afrique Police Station.
Andy recounted, “From what we have gathered, the robbers had been in the community since midnight. I only became aware around 1:30am after a fellow landlord informed me. They had already entered seven houses, stealing cash and valuables. The police have been informed and an officer has inspected the scene.”
One victim, speaking anonymously for fear of reprisal, described how the gang of 15 armed and unmasked men stormed his home at 1:59am, operating for 45 minutes.
“They broke in through the window before my wife could even open the door. We placed all the money we had on the table, but when they demanded more and I said there wasn’t any, they shot my wife in the leg. We are lucky to be alive.”
Other residents expressed frustration over the frequent attacks. A businessman, Mr Desmond Ukpong, whose home was raided on August 13, recounted a similar experience where he and his family were threatened and beaten while their valuables were taken. He lamented the lack of police response during the incident.
A landlady, Mrs Abigail Ekong expressed concern about the constant gunfire in the area, stating that it is affecting residents and local businesses. She urged government to intervene and bolster security, especially as crime rates increase during the ‘Ember’ months.
Mr Okon Etim, an automobile engineer with a workshop on Airport Road, added that he now closes his shop early due to the worsening insecurity in the area.
The state Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Timfon John confirmed that patrols in the area had been increased, with more officers deployed to identified “black spots.” He urged residents to report any suspicious activity to assist the police in maintaining safety.
