Davidson Ogbebor

Benin City, Edo State – Panic gripped residents and business owners along the busy Sapele Road axis of Benin City on Thursday evening after a gang of armed robbers launched a daring attack around Agip Junction and Guobadia Junction near Country Home Hotel at about 5:00 p.m. on June 25, 2026

According to eyewitness accounts, the heavily armed robbers arrived in a black Lexus RX 350 SUV. Witnesses said the vehicle reportedly had no rear registration plate, although a registration number was displayed at the front.

The robbers allegedly targeted several Point of Sale (POS) operators in the area, identified by residents as Miss Blessing, Justina and Omo, making away with cash and other valuables during the operation.

Eyewitnesses said the attackers fired gunshots indiscriminately, causing panic among traders, motorists and residents who fled for safety. The sound of gunfire reportedly sent businesses scrambling to close while passers-by sought cover.

“The gunshots were everywhere. People ran in different directions for safety. It was a terrifying experience,” an eyewitness who spoke on condition of anonymity said.

Residents disclosed that after carrying out the robbery operation, the suspects abandoned the Lexus SUV and escaped in a waiting mini-bus believed to have been used as their getaway vehicle.

Sources at the scene said police officers later arrived and towed away the abandoned Lexus vehicle as part of ongoing investigations into the incident.

The latest attack has heightened fears among residents who say criminal activities have become increasingly common along the once peaceful Sapele Road corridor. Community members are calling on security agencies to strengthen surveillance and patrols in the area to prevent further attacks.

Efforts to obtain an official reaction from the Edo State Police Command proved unsuccessful as calls placed to the Police Public Relations Officer were not answered as of the time of filing this report.

Meanwhile, residents have urged law enforcement authorities to intensify efforts to apprehend the perpetrators and restore public confidence in the security of the neighborhood.

Investigations into the incident are ongoing.