By FELIX UKAH

With the blocking of Abakaliki/Enugu Expressway to forestall the spread of Coronavirus into Ebonyi state, armed robbers, on Monday, ambushed passengers and robbed them of their luggage and money.

The victims were passengers who had hidden in the bush as to avoid being caught at the checkpoint manned by police, soldiers with the Deputy Governor, Dr Kelechi Igwe.

Another narration about the incident however said that some of bandits had POS machines, commanded their victims who have ATM cards to transfer monies to given bank account.

One of the robbers who was in the custody of military personnel, Ifeanyi Eze, told INDEPENDENT that they were only collecting money from the passengers because they spoiled their crops.

He said he was frying plantain in Lagos until he returned over the COVID-19.

The Nkalagu, Ebonyi-born man had with him a knife.

Another arrested suspect who gave his name as Ifeanyi Ochu, who said he is from Enugu state, was wearing a black vest with inscriptions: SECURITY.

He explained that he was only helping those that were stranded to get into Ebonyi state. (Independent)