An armed robbery gang, yesterday, raided houses and carted away pots of soup at the Mbukpa, Ambo and Adak Uko areas of Calabar South Local Council of Cross River State.

Though burglary was a regular occurrence in these areas, the carting away of pots of soup and food items was surprising to residents.

The Guardian learnt that the robbers started the operation at about 2:00 a.m., forced doors and burglaries opened, and beat up residents in the Adak Uko neighbourhood.

They also warned residents not to shout, as they have not come to kill, but to get food and valuables.

One of the residents, identified simply as Ekpeno said: “The gang wielded machetes and were very smart. They pulled down the burglaries and gained entry into the living room and kitchen.

“My neighbour was hit on the forehead for screaming, but the men told her in Efik language that they did not come to kill, but needed food and money.”

Ekpeno said policemen from Mbukpa division were alerted, but only responded after the robbers had left.

When contacted, the State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Irene Ugbo, said she was yet to be briefed on the incident. (The Guardian)