Red Alert On Sapele-Warri Road As Robberies, Kidnapping Activities Worry Commuters, Motorists

By Endurance Ikanone

A sense of fear and anxiety has gripped commuters and motorists plying the Sapele-Warri Road in Delta State, Nigeria, as kidnapping activities have reached an alarming rate.

The road, a vital transportation artery connecting several communities and cities in the southern region, has become a hotspot for criminal activity, leaving many to fear for their safety.

In recent weeks, there has been a surge in reported cases of kidnapping along the road, with gunmen targeting commercial vehicles, including buses, motorcycles, and tricycles, known locally as ‘keke’, as well as private cars.

The kidnappers often demand ransom from the families of their victims, leaving many to pay exorbitant sums to secure the release of their loved ones.

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A recent robbery and kidnapping case was reported on Friday, 28th of June 2024, where the suspected kidnappers and armed robbers attacked travellers along the Sapele-Warri Road, robbing them indiscriminately of money and valuables, after shooting one person dead.

The hoodlums reportedly operated on the road from 6:30pm to 8:30pm, while injuring some travellers and forcibly taking their belongings.

Commuters and motorists are now exercising extreme caution when traveling on the road, with many opting to take alternative routes or avoid traveling late in the evening.

The increased security measures have led to a surge in transportation costs, as drivers demand higher fares to compensate for the risks they are taking.

However, many are calling on the Delta State Police Command for more to be done to address the root causes of the problem and ensure the safety of those using the road.

“We are living in fear,” said a commuter who preferred to remain anonymous.

“You never know when you will be the next victim. The Delta State Police Command needs to do more to protect us.”

The Sapele-Warri road is a critical transportation link in the south region, and the recent surge in kidnapping activities has significant economic and social implications. As the authorities work to address the issue, commuters and motorists are left to navigate the dangerous road, hoping to avoid becoming the next victim.

The kidnapping spree has also led to a decrease in economic activities in the region, as many are afraid to travel to Sapele and Warri for business. The situation is dire, and urgent action is needed to restore peace and security to the area.