Armed Robbers strike in Ilorin, cart away millions

A four-man armed robbery gang on Friday morning struck along Muritala Mohammed Way in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, carting away several millions of naira from an unsuspecting victim after a brazen daylight attack.

Eyewitnesses said the masked gunmen, who were armed and daring, arrived at the scene in an ash-colour Toyota Corolla with a faded number plate. The robbers were believed to have trailed their victim to the location before launching the attack.

According to accounts, the gang opened fire on the victim’s grey Toyota Sienna, registered as AA 693 GT, shooting from behind to deflate the two left tyres and force the vehicle to a halt. 

After the vehicle stopped, three of the masked men reportedly alighted, while a fourth suspect remained behind the wheel, ready for a quick escape.

The assailants fired several shots into the air to scare away passers-by, sending people scrambling for safety. 

During the attack, stray bullets reportedly struck the driver on the arm and pierced through the front and rear windscreens, as well as parts of the vehicle’s body.

Eyewitnesses said the robbers transferred cartons containing large sums of money, reportedly packed in four big boxes from the victim’s vehicle into their own car before fleeing the scene.

Another witness lamented the absence of security personnel during and after the operation, noting that no police officers were seen at the scene while the robbery lasted.

Meanwhile, the Kwara State Police Command has confirmed the incident. 

In a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, the command said the Commissioner of Police, CP Ojo Adekimi, psc, mnips, has ordered discreet investigations into the attack.

The statement added that security has been strengthened across the Ilorin metropolis through enhanced deployments and increased visibility patrols to reassure residents.

The Commissioner of Police also advised residents to avoid carrying large sums of cash and urged members of the public to promptly report suspicious movements or activities to the nearest police station.