Car Vandals Wreak Havoc in Calabar as Residents Cry Out Over Rising Attacks

A surge in car vandalism across Calabar has left residents, particularly owners of Toyota vehicles and members of car hire services, living in fear and frustration. Many have described the situation as “a siege,” as thieves continue to strip parked vehicles of vital electronic parts.

Recent investigations reveal that the vandals have become increasingly daring, expanding their operations beyond major streets to isolated mechanic workshops in areas such as Asari Eso, Calcemco Road, Ekorinim I and II, Big Qua, and 8 Miles.

Their primary targets are Toyota models, especially Corolla and Hilux vehicles, from which they remove expensive components such as brain boxes, window controls, and other electronic modules.

At least 19 members of the Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATUN) have fallen victim in recent weeks. Even government officials are not spared — a medical practitioner with the Ministry of Health, identified as Dr. Nonso, had the official vehicle in his care vandalized, with all its electronic components stolen.

Victims say the criminals now use sophisticated tools to bypass modern alarm systems.

“My car has an alarm, yet they stole the brain box,” said Nse Michael, a driver whose vehicle was attacked. “My electrician said they used a magnetic device to disable the alarm. I now need nearly ₦300,000 to fix my car. After 11 p.m., you don’t see police patrols anywhere.”

Another driver, Abu Monday, narrated how thieves broke into his compound at Ekorinim II and vandalized four Toyota Corolla cars in one night.

“We are helpless. Over 25 drivers have been affected, but most don’t report to the police because they ask for money before taking statements,” he alleged.

The South-South Zonal Coordinator of AUATUN, Comrade Stella Etim, condemned what she called “poor policing” and called for urgent intervention.

“We’ve received nine official complaints, but many victims are staying silent. We appeal to the state government, Operation Akpakwu, and the Police Commissioner to act fast. We’ve been promised action, but we need to see results,” she said.

Responding to the growing alarm, the Deputy Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Igri Ewa, confirmed that only two cases had been formally reported — one at Akim Police Station and another at State Housing Division.

He said the Commissioner of Police, CP Rashid Afegbua, has summoned divisional heads for an emergency meeting and ordered intensified patrols.

“We are on top of the situation,” Ewa assured. “Investigations are ongoing, and those responsible will be brought to justice.”

Residents, however, remain skeptical as car owners continue to count their losses amid what they describe as a growing security vacuum in Calabar’s once-peaceful neighbourhoods.