An attack by
suspected armed robbers on the facilities of the Africa Independent
Television (AIT) and Ray Power 105.5 fm, Benin City station has kept
the station off air. The suspected armed robbers numbering about 25
allegedly attacked and overpower the security men on duty, and tied
them after inflicting injuries on them.
One of the security
men on duty during the attack said the robbers took every useful thing
found inside and outside the buildings accommodating the transmitting
equipments and studios.
A press statement
jointly signed by Omoaka Isaac and Mike Aladenika, Head of stations,
AIT/Ray power, said the robber came with a plan “designed to cripple
the organisation, as they went as far as unearthing cables and
cannibalising power generating sets, even to the least, window blind.”
Three members of staff who were on duty during the attack were
reportedly assaulted by the yet to be identified gunmen. They are
presently receiving medical treatment at a private hospital in Benin
City.
Not satisfied with
their loots on Monday morning, the armed men were said to have return
to the station the following night. They were however resisted by the
policemen on duty that night, with the assistance of reinforcement
provided by the policemen on patrol duty around the area who engaged
them in a gun duel. One of the policemen narrowly escaped being hit by
one of the bullets fired by the armed men.
Mr Omoaka said “I strongly believe that the attack was masterminded by someone who knows the industry so well.”
The incident has
been reported to the Edo State Police command and they have since
commenced investigations into the robbery incident.
