BEVERLY HILLS, October 03, (THEWILL) – A six-man gang of armed robbers on Friday attacked a branch of WEMA bank in Iyin-Ekiti in Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government Area of Ekiti.
Sources said the armed robbers, numbering close to 10, carted away large sums of money after blowing up the security door to gain access.
The source added that the attack caused panic as residents and travelers in transit scampered for safety following the sporadic gunshots that accompanied the arrival of the gang.
The operation was said to have lasted for at least 40 minutes without any police interruption, raising questions about the absence of security operatives despite the presence of a police station in the town and the nearness of other police stations in bordering towns.
“In fact, the police disappointed us. They disappointed the people of Iyin today. The robbers robbed for over 40 minutes without any challenge. They came in two vehicles, shot into the air and scared the people around away. In fact, those in the nearby market left their commodities and ran for their lives. The police station along Igede Ekiti was not up to 500 metres while the police patrol point along Ado Ekiti should be a kilometre away, but none of them responded for over 40 minutes the robbers operated. But we thank God nobody was killed, but the agony of the gunshots was too much on the locals”, a resident lamented.
The Police Public Relations Officer in the State, Sunday Abutu who confirmed the incident said the police upon receiving the information immediately visited the troubled spot.
“We got a distress call from Iyin Ekiti about the robbery and we immediately dispatched our men and officers to the place. I want to confirm to you that the robbers are being chased as I speak with you and the determination is to effect their arrest. We are assuring the people that the hoodlums shall be arrested and brought to justice. Ekiti is not a safe haven for robbers and that we shall continue to sustain”.
ALSO READ: Police Alert Residents Of Plans By Armed Hoodlums Plotting to Invade Ekiti
The State Police Command had on Wednesday asked residents to be cautious, warning of the presence of suspected armed hoodlums planning to cause panic.
The police authorities, however, gave the assurance that the Force is committed to saving lives and properties.
About the Author
