The Police in Cross River have confirmed the abduction of some passengers around Nde 3 Corners Akparabong Junction in Ikom Local Government.
While in transit, passengers reportedly fell victim to an ambush by gunmen who opened fire on their vehicles, resulting in three injuries and an unspecified number being taken away by the assailants.
The command’s spokesperson, SP Irene Ugbo, confirmed the incident but refrained from providing specific details about the attack. She mentioned that the event took place on Sunday.
Ugbo stated that ongoing efforts aim to secure the release of the abducted passengers and prevent any recurrence of such incidents in the area.
A community resident, Mr. James Ese, mentioned that the three individuals who sustained injuries were transported to an undisclosed hospital for medical treatment.
He expressed concerns about the increasingly challenging situation at Akparabong junction, describing it as a nightmare for both motorists and commuters over the past three weeks.
Accusing herdsmen of being responsible for the frequent attacks on the road, Ese urged security agencies to be vigilant and fulfill their responsibilities effectively.
“We want the police to rise up to the challenge and end this menace to passengers in the last three weeks.
“This particular area of the Nde 3 Corners Akparabong junction has become a bloodbath spot owing to kidnapping, with over four deaths, including a baby, recorded these past weeks,” he said.