Armed men targeted Point of Sale (PoS) operators in Umuahia, the capital of Abia State, in a series of violent robberies on Sunday, leaving two operators injured and the community in shock.
The first attack occurred along Uzuakoli Road, where the robbers, reportedly arriving on a tricycle, opened fire into the air to disperse bystanders before confronting PoS operators in the area.
Witnesses reported that one PoS operator was shot after hesitating to hand over his cash to the assailants. The robbers then fled the scene, causing panic among nearby residents and churchgoers.
Not long after, the robbers struck again, this time at the Azikiwe-Ikot Ekpene Road and FMC area, targeting another PoS dealer. Their gunfire attracted the attention of officers from the Abia State Police Command, who quickly mobilized to the scene.
The police presence forced the robbers to abandon their attack and flee. It remains unclear whether they managed to steal any cash during their escape.
According to a report by ABN TV Umuahia, the two injured PoS operators are currently receiving treatment at a hospital in Umuahia. The extent of their injuries has not been disclosed.
ASP Maureen Chinaka, spokesperson for the Abia State Police Command, confirmed the incidents, stating, “Yes, there was such an incident, but the police did the needful, and an investigation is ongoing.”
The attacks have heightened concerns about the safety of PoS operators in Umuahia, as they have become increasingly vulnerable targets for criminals seeking quick cash.
Local residents are calling for enhanced security measures to protect small business operators from further harm.
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