On Friday, audacious armed robbers targeted three banks in the Otukpo region of Benue State, making off with several million naira. According to reports, the suspected robbers arrived in the town at approximately 3:15 p.m. and utilized explosives to forcefully access the banks.
Tragically, the suspects operated for over an hour, resulting in the loss of seven lives, which included both police officers and a former councilor who happened to be conducting business in one of the affected banks. Otukpo serves as the political hub of Benue South Senatorial District, home to the Idoma and Igede ethnic groups.
An eyewitness who simply identified himself as Sunny, who operates a Point On Sales business close to one of the banks, said that the robbers first attacked the police station before proceeding to the banks.
“It was sporadic gunshots that alerted people and passers to the arrival of the suspected robbers.
“Everyone scampered for safety. What they did was first attack the police station, which is near the three banks.
“The banks affected include United Bank for Africa, UBA, Zenith Bank, and First Bank Plc.
“The robbers operated for more than an hour without resistance from security operatives, and they killed two people.
The eyewitness said the robbers were throwing naira notes as they left in two Hilux vehicles and one car.
When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer for Benue State Police Command, SP Catherine Anene, confirmed the robbery incident but said she was yet to get details from officers in Otukpo.
Anene said, “I have not been able to speak with the DPO or any of the officers there, but I know there is an incident. I don’t want to be disturbing them, so let’s give it some time.”
