Three feared dead as robbers attack banks in Ekiti

No fewer than three persons were feared dead in a bloody bank robbery on Wednesday in Ikere-Ekiti, Ekiti State.

The robbers, who attacked Wema Bank and Access Bank in different locations in the community, were said to have operated freely. They were also said to have used dynamite to pull down the entrance doors of the two banks.

It was gathered that some of the robbers, armed with guns, moved freely using motorcycles and a black vehicle while the attack lasted.

It was also gathered that the robbers dropped some dynamites around the town and shot aimlessly to scare the residents.

The robbers, said to be about 20, operated in two groups as they attacked the Amotekun Corps office in the town and shot some operatives.

An eyewitness said the incident happened around 4pm, and that the robbers attempted to escape through the Ado-Akure Road but upon realising that there was a military checkpoint, made a U-turn and went through the Ise-Ekiti Road.

The robbers were said to have carted away a large sum of money from the banks.

It was learnt that many residents who work outside the town could not return home, while those around stayed indoor while the robbery lasted.

Confirming the robbery attack, the Ogoga of Ikere-Ekiti, Oba Adejimi Alagbado, expressed shock over the incident, describing it as unfortunate.

He said they operated unhindered for several minutes and escaped despite the presence of military checkpoints and a police area command in the town.

When contacted, the police spokesman in Ekiti State, DSP Sunday Abutu, could not be reached for comment.