Members of the Ambazonian insurgents from Cameroon who sought refuge in the mountainous community of Belegete in Obanliku Local Government Area of Cross River State for nearly two weeks, have fled.
According to the paramount ruler of Belegete, HRM Uchua Amos said in an interview, that the insurgents burnt houses in the community before fleeing.
Recall that the rebels had earlier abducted over 40 Cross River indigenes and killed the clan head, Chief Francis Okweshi.
The Ambazonian rebels infiltrated Belegete community on December 5, 2023, leading to the displacement of scores of residents.
The monarch added that the displaced people are yet to return because the insurgents had destroyed many of their houses.
He added that he called army and police commanders immediately he received reports of the invasion.
“The army could not immediately access the Belegete community because of its very difficult topography. It takes over six hours from Obudu Mountain Resort to get there by descending the mountains into the deep.
“It is not motorable in any way. Okada riders charge N35,000 to travel there. So it was very difficult for our men to descend to the place to rescue our people.
“But reliable sources confirmed to me this morning that the insurgents have abandoned the community. But they however burnt some houses before they fled.”
The monarch appealed for government presence in Belegete community to curb incessant invasions by armed insurgents from Cameroon.
He said the Belegete people are cut off from the rest of Nigeria, adding that the community lacks necessary public amenities.
The spokesperson of the Cross River Police Command, Irene Ugbo, said she could not immediately confirm the development.