Pandemonium broke out in Ekiti state as six-man robbers invaded Wema bank in Iyin-Ekiti, Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government Area of Ekiti State.
According to reports, the robbers destroyed the security doors with explosives suspected to be dynamite at about 3:30pm.
The robbers also escaped carted away unspecified amount of money as the operation lasted for about 40minutes.
Recall that the police had earlier informed that bandits were planning an invasion on the state.
According to an eyewitness, the robbers shot sporadically into the air to scare residents and traders at the nearby market before gaining entry into the banking hall.
The residents were said to have run in different directions, seeking safety.
Vehicles travelling across Ado-Iyin-Aramoko-Efon road had to take a detour to prevent being caught in the web of gunshots.
“In fact, the police disappointed us. They disappointed the people of Iyin today. The robbers robbed for over 40 minutes without any challenge,” the source said.
“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”.
Ekiti Police Public Relations Officer, Sunday Abutu, who confirmed the scenario said the police operatives visited the scene after the receiving a distress call on the ongoing robbery.
“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”.
