PUNCH Reporter Robbed at Gunpoint in 'One Chance' Vehicle on Lagos-Ibadan Expressway

A reporter from The PUNCH newspaper fell victim to a robbery incident while traveling in a 'one chance' vehicle along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway on Monday, April 15, 2024. The journalist, whose identity has been withheld for security reasons, was held at gunpoint and robbed of his personal belongings, including his mobile phone, cash, and identification documents.

According to the victim's account, he boarded the vehicle, believed to be a commercial bus, at the Berger bus stop on the expressway. Shortly after the trip started, the driver and two other passengers, who were later revealed to be armed robbers, threatened the reporter with a gun and demanded his valuables.

The incident, which lasted for approximately 20 minutes, left the journalist shaken but physically unharmed. He reported the crime to the nearest police station immediately after the robbers fled the scene with their loot.

Why this matters: The rising cases of 'one chance' robberies along major highways in Nigeria highlight the need for increased security measures and public awareness. Such incidents not only threaten the safety of commuters but also undermine public confidence in the transportation system.

The Lagos State Police Command has launched an investigation into the incident, with the aim of apprehending the perpetrators and bringing them to justice. A spokesperson for the command stated, "We are currently gathering evidence and following up on leads to track down the suspects involved in this heinous act. We urge members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities."

This robbery incident serves as a sobering reminder of the security challenges faced by commuters in Nigeria, particularly in the face of the prevalent 'one chance' menace. The PUNCH reporter's ordeal underscores the need for heightened vigilance and collaborative efforts between law enforcement agencies and the public to combat such crimes and ensure the safety of all citizens on the nation's highways.

Key Takeaways

• PUNCH reporter robbed at gunpoint in 'one chance' vehicle on Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.
• Robbers stole reporter's phone, cash, and ID documents before fleeing the scene.
• Police launched investigation to apprehend the suspects involved in the incident.
• Rising 'one chance' robberies on major highways highlight need for increased security measures.
• Incident underscores security challenges faced by commuters and need for public-law enforcement collaboration.