Bravery on the Highway as Commercial Driver Subdues Armed Robber, Rescues Passengers from One Chance Attack [VIDEO]

 

A commercial shuttle driver operating along the Onitsha–Awka route in Anambra State has emerged as an unlikely hero after bravely confronting and overpowering a member of a notorious ‘One Chance’ robbery syndicate during a night operation that turned into a nightmare for unsuspecting passengers. The dramatic event unfolded during what was meant to be the driver’s final trip for the day.

Obinna Ekeze, a well-known shuttle driver from Awkuzu community, recounted his harrowing experience with unwavering composure. He explained that everything seemed routine when he picked up the suspects at Tarzan Junction in Onitsha. The gang members disguised themselves as regular passengers heading towards Igbariam, a nearby community. Under the guise of hardship and given that only one space remained in the bus, they pleaded for a discount, and Ekeze agreed, reducing their fare by 400 naira as an act of goodwill.

What began as an ordinary trip soon descended into chaos. Just before reaching Umunya, one of the men revealed a pistol, cocked it, and pressed it against the driver's head. With calm threats and grim confidence, he ordered Ekeze to stop the bus, telling him not to attempt any sudden moves or risk getting shot. The passengers, stunned and terrified, watched helplessly as the robbery began.

The gang quickly took control of the bus, seizing all the cash the passengers had on them. Ekeze revealed that the criminals initially refused to collect phones, apparently worried about being traced or tracked. However, their caution gave way to frustration when the cash collected turned out to be less than they had hoped for. They then forced passengers to begin making electronic transfers under duress.

Those who protested or claimed they had no money in their accounts were subjected to physical assault. A few who attempted to hide their phones were beaten, and eventually, the gang forcefully collected several mobile devices. The attackers barked orders, demanding the driver to stop, move, or slow down at intervals, controlling both the road and the people in the vehicle with the precision of seasoned criminals.

What followed next was a display of courage and instinct that changed the course of the entire incident. At one of the stops, Obinna Ekeze made a swift and daring move. Sensing an opportunity, he lunged at the armed robber who had been issuing commands, causing the man to panic and jump out of the moving shuttle to escape. In the midst of the confusion, the driver managed to grab another gang member who was still inside the vehicle.

The second suspect fought to break free, but Ekeze held firm until some male passengers mustered courage and joined in. Together, they overpowered the criminal, restrained him, and alerted security operatives in the area. The intervention of security personnel from the Operation Udo Ga-Achi unit based in Umunya brought the situation under control.

A video now circulating widely on social media captured the aftermath of the incident. The footage shows the apprehended suspect surrounded by security agents, the shuttle bus, visibly shaken passengers, and an array of mobile phones recovered from the suspect. It also featured the driver who narrated his side of the ordeal, earning praise from onlookers and commenters alike.

During interrogation by the security commander at the scene, the suspect confessed to being a member of a One Chance gang. Identified as Kenechukwu Vincent, he disclosed that he hails from Isiekenesi in Ideato South Local Government Area of Imo State and resides in Awka, the capital of Anambra State. He admitted to being part of a wider syndicate that targets commuters across the state, often using deceit and weapons to rob them of money, phones, and other valuables while in transit.

The confession has since sparked a wider investigation, with authorities hoping the arrest leads to the capture of other members of the group still at large. The police and local security outfits have promised to intensify patrols along key routes, especially as such robbery tactics have become increasingly common in densely populated urban transit areas.

Many residents and passengers have hailed Ekeze’s courage, describing his bravery as rare and commendable in a time when most people might freeze or surrender in such high-risk situations. Calls have emerged from local transport unions and community leaders urging the state government to formally recognize and reward his act of gallantry.

As investigations continue, the incident serves as both a cautionary tale and a beacon of resilience. It is a grim reminder of the dangers that lurk even in everyday journeys, but also proof that ordinary individuals can rise to extraordinary challenges. For now, the people of Anambra, especially those who witnessed the event firsthand, are grateful that the courage of one man helped stop what could have ended far worse.