Armed robbers struck Imoh Street near Afokang Road in Calabar on Thursday night, injuring several residents in a violent house-to-house raid.
The attack occurred just hours after Governor Bassey Otu launched Operation Okwok, a new security initiative aimed at combating crime in the state.
As part of the effort, the governor had donated 30 vehicles to security agencies.
One of the victims, Alice Dickson, a Health Technology student, recounted the harrowing experience.
“They came at night, heavily armed. They broke down our front door and used torchlights to search the rooms.
“They assaulted my sisters and me, stole my school fees, our phones, and other valuables,” she said.
She added that the robbers ransacked neighboring apartments before escaping, with no police intervention.
Meanwhile, Governor Otu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to security, stating that Operation Okwok—which replaces Operation Apakwu—will strengthen law enforcement efforts.
A statement from his Chief Press Secretary, Gill Nsa, revealed plans to deploy 100 security vehicles statewide, with a joint task force comprising military and paramilitary agencies.
The state’s Security Adviser, Maj. Gen. Okoi Ubi Obono (Rtd.), described the initiative as a proactive measure against crime, likening it to bees that defend their hive aggressively when threatened.
