Rivers State government has arrested 22 traders entering the state from neighbouring Abia and Anambra States for flouting the state’s directive on border closure meant to contain the spread of the coronavirus pandemic.

The traders, who were arrested in three different sets, came from Anambra and Abia states.

They said they were not aware that the lockdown was serious in Rivers State, because in their respective states, traders were allowed to move around.

One of the traders, Mrs. Uju Nnamdi noted that she was on her way to the state to sell her wares.

She said though she was aware of the lockdown of the state, she never knew her trading would endanger the state.

Driver of the truck that brought them, Mr. Chijioke John said he was travelling to Onne from Onitsha, but picked the women at Ihiala in Anambra State.

He said the women pleaded with him to help them and he took pity on them, since they were stranded.

The women were reportedly conveyed in a container to conceal their movement into the state, but driver said he opened one of the container doors to allow for ventilation.(The Nation)