Bank Robbery in Otukpo Claims Eight Lives, Including Policemen

In a shocking incident on Friday afternoon, a group of armed robbers launched a brazen attack on selected commercial banks in Otukpo, the headquarters of Benue South Senatorial District. The daring operation, lasting approximately an hour, saw the assailants employing explosives and sophisticated weaponry, causing widespread panic and chaos in the ancient town.

Eyewitnesses reported that the violent robbery resulted in the tragic loss of eight lives, including police officers, vigilante members, and a sitting Councillor who was conducting business within one of the targeted banks when the criminals struck.

The assailants, described as hooded and numbering around 10, began their rampage by attacking the local police station, where they disarmed the officers on duty. Subsequently, they moved on to the main commercial banks in the town.

The terrifying ordeal unfolded around 3 pm, as the assailants arrived in Toyota Hilux vehicles and another smaller car, targeting Zenith Bank. They detonated explosives within the bank and initiated a hail of gunfire. The violence shattered vehicles in the vicinity and disrupted businesses within the market area, given the banks’ close proximity to it.

During this chaotic event, the armed robbers successfully plundered Zenith Bank, UBA, and First Bank. Tragically, they also took the lives of eight individuals, including several police personnel assigned to the banks and members of the Otukpo vigilante who valiantly attempted to confront the assailants. Among the victims was a sitting Councillor who happened to be inside one of the banks during the robbery.

After robbing the banks, the criminals fled the scene with their ill-gotten gains, discharging gunfire into the air to deter any potential pursuers. They headed towards Makurdi via the Makurdi-Otukpo Road, leaving the streets of Otukpo in disarray as residents sought safety amid the relentless gunshots.

In response to this crisis, the traditional ruler of Otukpo, HRH Chief John Eimonye, confirmed the ongoing efforts of security personnel in pursuit of the armed robbers. He reassured the community that soldiers and police were actively chasing down the assailants and that escape was unlikely.

The Police Public Relations Officer, Superintendent Catherine Anene, acknowledged the incident but was awaiting further details from officers on the ground in Otukpo. While the situation continues to unfold, the community remains in shock and mourning for the lives lost in this audacious robbery.