Osun: Incessant armed robbery attacks causing residents fear, sorrow – Urban Alert warns

Urban Alert, a non-profit organisation has expressed concerns over the incessant armed robbery attacks on commercial banks in Osun State, which has continued to make life difficult for residents.

The organisation also revealed that the attacks have disrupted commercial activities and the economic structures of many towns and villages, leaving residents in a state of sorrow and fear.

These concerns were expressed in a press release signed by Rashidat Agboola, the Communication Officer of Urban Alert on Saturday.

Urban Alert noted that it was disheartening that Osun Central Senatorial District as a result of the armed robbery menace has only three towns where residents can access banks.

“This means over one million residents of this senatorial district will leave their towns and villages to travel several kilometres to access commercial banks that are only operational in Oyan, Erin-Osun and Osogbo.

“With ten local government areas making the senatorial district, Osun Central is an essential part of the state due to its administrative and economic roles.

“Furthermore, it has been recorded that even the Point Of Sales (POS) operators and residents with businesses are not left out in these attacks as they have been attacked with light arms and ammunition. Also, the increase in the rate of car burgling and dismantling in Osun State is becoming unprecedented.”

While calling on the federal and state governments to make the lives and businesses of citizens their number one priority, they advised that adequate equipment be provided and local governments empowered to take charge of local security to better secure lives and properties at the grassroots.

Urban Alert also encouraged the general public to be security-conscious and also provide information to security agencies that would forestall a continuation of criminal activities in the state.

DAILY POST reports that recent armed robbery attacks in commercial banks have rattled the existing peace in some communities in the state.

In 2019, some banks in Ola Orangun, Inisa, Ifon and Ikirun were closed down due to armed robbery attacks.

On 5th March and 12th August 2021, banks in Okuku and Iree were attacked leading to the loss of seven lives.

The most recent armed robbery attack on Wema Bank, Iragbiji on 28th September 2021 had led to the loss of two Police inspectors.

Daily Post