In recent times, the disturbing actions of menacing and violent young criminals haunting the streets of Port Harcourt have become a cause for concern among the local residents. These condemnable activities manifest in various forms, ranging from open-day robberies and nighttime operations to bus and car theft, kidnappings, and even killings. Many of these hoodlums are armed with weapons such as guns and cutlasses, moving in groups to carry out their nefarious deeds. The escalation of their activities has prompted traders in Diobu to close their shops by 7:00 PM, especially when the streets become deserted, leaving those who linger at risk.
Numerous victims and witnesses interviewed by our reporters revealed that a significant portion of these hoodlums is below twenty years of age and belongs to dangerous cult groups, terrorizing the residents. For instance, a recent clash between a cult group and local youths on Njemanze Street in Mile One Diobu left the residents living in fear.
Chioma Ejike, a trader, recounted a harrowing experience where she fell victim to two men and a well-dressed lady posing as passengers in a taxi. The seemingly innocent passengers later brandished a gun, threatened her, and robbed her of all her belongings, including her ATM and PIN, before forcing her out of the vehicle.
Onyiyechi Enwere, a member of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), shared a similar ordeal. She boarded a minibus from the Adokiye Ameisimaka Stadium after a Holy Ghost Rally program, unaware that the driver and two others were disguised criminals. The victims were taken into the bush, where they were robbed and subjected to physical harm.
Many believe that the surge in street prowling can be attributed to frustration stemming from economic hardship and rampant unemployment. Consequently, there is a call for the government to prioritize addressing the issue of unemployment to curb the rising insecurity in Port Harcourt.
