Residents of Umuafai, the Low Cost Housing Estate and neighbouring communities around Orpet in Umuahia have expressed concern over the activities of a suspected cult group accused of terrorising the area at night.
The residents are calling on security agencies to intervene and curb what they describe as a growing wave of robberies and assaults.
Those affected said the group, believed to be made up of young men, operates around Orpet and the outskirts of the World Bank Housing Estate. Their alleged activities include bullying, physical assault and the snatching of phones, money and other valuables, particularly during late hours.
A source who spoke on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter said the group usually congregates at a spot on the outskirts of the World Bank Housing Estate, along the road leading from Orpet to Umuafai. According to the source, the youths, estimated to be between 18 and 20 years old, harass both young and elderly residents after allegedly taking illicit substances.
The source further alleged that during the day, the group gathers at the residence of their alleged ringleader on a street behind the Orpet filling station, but becomes more aggressive at night, when they reportedly attack unsuspecting members of the public.
Confirming these claims, a victim who recounted his experience said the group comprises about seven members and is most active between Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights, usually from about 10pm, when most businesses have closed.
He explained that while returning from work around 10pm on one occasion, one of the group members approached him and snatched the MP3 player he was using. As he attempted to pursue the suspect, other members emerged and threatened him, forcing him to retreat.
The victim said he later shared his experience with others in the area, many of whom confirmed similar encounters. According to him, Orpet has become particularly unsafe between 10pm and 5am.
Another victim, who identified herself as Nkechi and lives around Agbama Housing Estate, said she was robbed last year around Orpet. She recalled losing her handbag containing her phone, money and other important items, adding that passing through the area alone has remained frightening for years.
She appealed to the police to intensify patrols around Orpet, warning that the situation could worsen if the suspected criminals are not checked. She also urged the state government to hasten ongoing road construction from Orpet to Umuafai, noting that the restoration of street lighting would help residents and security operatives to better identify criminal elements.
Traders operating around Orpet and Umuafai also said they now close their shops earlier than usual to avoid being attacked. They appealed to security agencies to take decisive action against the group.
Some of the traders questioned how the state intends to sustain a business friendly environment if security concerns persist, recalling assurances by Governor Alex Otti that his administration is working to transform the state, strengthen security and enable businesses to operate for longer hours without fear.
Residents Raise Alarm Over Nighttime Attacks Around Orpet, Urge Security Action
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