A robbery attempt at a branch of the United Bank for Africa (UBA) in Ughelli on Friday left two individuals injured and one person abducted.
The incident occurred when unidentified gunmen targeted the bank in what appeared to be a carefully orchestrated heist.
According to Eons Intelligence, the assailants had tracked a bank customer who was preparing to make a deposit and intercepted him just outside the bank premises.
Shortly after the customer entered the bank, the gunmen swiftly moved into action.
“Within minutes of the customer’s entry, we heard gunshots and chaos erupted,” described a local resident who preferred to remain anonymous.
Police officers stationed at the bank responded promptly, engaging the armed assailants in a fierce gunfight that prevented them from gaining entry into the building.
The exchange of fire resulted in injuries to two individuals who were caught in the crossfire, and one person was forcibly abducted by the attackers.
“We were fortunate that the police were quick to respond,” stated another witness, visibly shaken by the ordeal.
“It could have been much worse.”
The robbers, failing to breach the bank’s defenses, fled the scene in a gold-colored Toyota Venza, evading immediate capture.
Law enforcement agencies have launched a manhunt to apprehend the perpetrators and secure the safe release of the abducted individual.
“We are actively pursuing all leads to ensure those responsible for this brazen attack are brought to justice swiftly,” assured Police Commissioner Hassan Bello, addressing concerns from the community.
The injured victims were rushed to a nearby hospital for urgent medical treatment. Authorities have not disclosed the identities of those injured or abducted pending further investigation.
The attempted robbery has rattled the quiet town of Ughelli, with residents expressing shock and concern over the boldness of the attackers. Banking operations at the UBA branch have been temporarily suspended as authorities conduct a thorough investigation into the incident.
“We urge anyone with information regarding this incident to come forward,” urged Commissioner Bello, emphasizing the importance of community cooperation in combating such criminal acts.