The quiet streets of Eket Local Government Area in Akwa Ibom State were shattered by chaos last Saturday night.

At the bustling Hephzibah Mall, owned by renowned businessman Samuel Ekerenam, gunshots pierced the air, as masked assailants stormed the premises.

Shoppers and passers-by scattered in terror as the armed men unleashed their fury, leaving behind a grim scene of violence.

Tragically, Ekerenam’s driver lost his life in the attack, while a police officer assigned to protect him sustained injuries. The businessman himself was dragged away by the gunmen, vanishing into the night.

One eyewitness, Udobong Asuquo, recalled the terrifying moment: “The incident occurred at about 10pm on Saturday and claimed the life of the driver, while the policeman attached to the kidnapped proprietor of the mall was injured”.

Seized For Ransom? 

Such brazen acts of violence raise urgent questions about security in the area and the growing fear within the local community.

As residents await answers, many are left wondering what steps will be taken to prevent further attacks.

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A family source, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, shared the family’s uncertainty: “We are yet to ascertain the motive of the kidnappers, whether the man was seized for ransom or other motives because they are yet to contact the family”.

In response, the spokesman for the Police in the state, ASP Timfon John, confirmed the situation, saying: “The commissioner of Police, Joseph Eribo, had since deployed tactical operatives to comb the area for the abducted businessman”.

ASP John reassured the public, stating: “We are on top of the case. In no time, the kidnapped victim will be rescued unharmed, and the perpetrators will face the full weight of the law”.

The family and community now await swift action from the authorities as they remain hopeful for Ekerenam’s safe return.