One killed as militants invade A’Ibom market

Armed militants invaded Adadia Beach Market and its environs in the Uruan Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State on Wednesday, killing a woman and injuring other traders.

The militants, numbering about 20, and dressed in military camouflage, were said to have come from neighbouring Cross River State.

An eyewitness, Mr. Okokon Edet, told our correspondent on the telephone that as soon as the militants arrived at the beach in four speedboats, they began shooting sporadically.

According to Edet, the militants went round all the shops in the market and looted valuables, goods, cash, and outboard engines.

He said, “When the militants approached, nobody was scared as people thought that they were soldiers. As soon as they arrived at the beach market and began to shoot into the air, it dawned on the people that they were not soldiers but militants.

“One person died from the incident. Those that sustained serious injuries were taken to the Methodist General Hospital, Ituk Mbang, Uruan; St. Luke’s Hospital Anua, Uyo; Life Care Hospital, Uyo, and a private hospital at Nung Ikono Ufok, Uruan.”

The member representing Uruan State Constituency in the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Mr. Aniekan Bassey, was said to have paid for the treatment of the injured.

Bassey expressed worry over incessant attacks in the area, describing them as assault on the peace loving people of Uruan. He said the attack was unacceptable.

He asked the beach traders to set up local vigilante groups; engage in community policing and information gathering to assist law enforcement agencies serve them better.

He said, “The attack is highly condemnable and barbaric. These militants are heartless; this market is the largest fish market in Akwa Ibom.

“This attack was planned because it took place on the same day the traders were to travel to shore to buy their goods in neighbouring towns.”

He appealed to the federal and state governments to come to the aid of the Uruan people and intensify measures at ridding Akwa Ibom waterways of criminal elements.

The Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Cordelia Nwawe, said the bandits came in through the waterfront, adding that a middle-aged woman died from stray bullets, while two other persons were injured.

She said, “The prompt arrival of policemen prevented the militants from wreaking havoc. We are currently on their trail. Marine policemen had been stationed at the beach to prevent further attacks.”