In a shocking turn of events, the peaceful Ughelli Community was thrown into disarray on Friday afternoon, July 5, 2024, as a group of suspected armed robbers unleashed terror on the unsuspecting residents.
The incident occurred near a new-generation bank along Isoko Road, where a bank customer had arrived to deposit a substantial amount of cash as reported by SouthernVoiceNews.
Eyewitnesses recounted a harrowing scene as the armed robbers, equipped with sophisticated weapons, arrived in a gleaming Gold Coloured Toyota Venza. With calculated precision, they followed their target, waiting for the opportune moment to strike. As the victim approached the UBA premises, chaos ensued as the assailants opened fire into the air, sending bystanders into a frenzy.
Swiftly seizing the opportunity, the criminals descended upon the victim, making off with a staggering sum of N15.6 million. Startled witnesses described the intensity of the ordeal, as the gunmen hastily snatched three large bags, colloquially known as ‘Ghana Must Go’ bags, brimming with money.
Tragically, the robbery left a trail of casualties. Reports indicate that a bank private security guard, identified as Mr. Saturday Paragon, along with an innocent motorcycle (Okada) rider and a woman, fell victim to the robbers’ bullets. Their injuries are being treated in undisclosed medical facilities, and their recovery remains uncertain.
The incident sent shockwaves throughout the community, prompting shop owners to hastily lock up their establishments, while vehicular movement came to a standstill along the bustling Isoko Road. Panic and fear gripped the hearts of Ughelli residents, who had previously enjoyed a tranquil environment.
A source close to the scene revealed, “The robbers specifically targeted the customer who had arrived to make a substantial deposit. Unfortunately, before he could even enter the bank premises, he fell victim to this heinous crime. Our courageous security guard was injured in the line of duty and is currently receiving medical attention.”
The investigation into this brazen robbery is underway, with authorities poring over surveillance footage. A spy camera captured the suspected armed robbers, showing them arriving in a gold-colored Toyota Venza. Chillingly, one of the assailants, seated in the passenger seat, brandished an AK-47 rifle while wearing a face mask to conceal his identity.
The Ughelli community, known for its peace and harmony, now finds itself grappling with the aftermath of this shocking incident. Residents are urged to remain vigilant and cooperate fully with law enforcement agencies as they work tirelessly to bring the perpetrators to justice.
