By Ada Nkong
Following an incident earlier today where an armed policeman shot at un-armed civilians at Atakpa in Calabar leading to the death of an onlooker and injury to others, the state police PRO SP Irene Ugbo says the officer has been taken into custody.
See full statement.
SHOOTING INCIDENT/MURDER AT DIVISIONAL POLICE HEADQUARTERS, ATAKPA, CALABAR
The Cross River State Police Command regrets to inform the public of a tragic incident that occurred today, 23rd March, 2025, at the Divisional Police Headquarters in Atakpa, Calabar, at approximately 0555hrs.
An officer, Inspector Effiong Bassey, serving at the mentioned division, returned from his night duty at Ekondo Microfinance Bank and began to exhibit abnormal behavior. Inspector Bassey refused to hand over the AK-47 rifle he was assigned and instead proceeded to block the station’s gate, preventing anyone from entering or leaving the premises. Despite attempts at peaceful dialogue to resolve the situation, the officer’s actions escalated.
Subsequently, Tactical Units/Patrol teams were deployed to the scene, where Inspector Bassey, suspected to be mentally deranged, opened fire on bystanders who had been instructed to leave the area. Tragically, three individuals were struck by the officer’s stray bullets, including Ijeoma Wilson Obot, a 41-year-old female, who later succumbed to her injuries. The other two victims, Charles Mkpang and another individual, are currently receiving medical treatment and are in stable condition.
The officer was eventually subdued, disarmed, and is now in police custody. He is undergoing further investigation into the incident.
The Assistant Inspector General of Police, Zone 6 Headquarters, Calabar, and the Cross River State Command Management Team visited the hospital where the victims were receiving care. The AIG also made a donation to support the immediate treatment of the injured. Efforts to engage with key stakeholders are ongoing to ensure that the tension in the community is de-escalated.
The Police Command urges the families of the victims and the public to remain calm as the investigation into this unfortunate incident continues. The Cross River State Police Command is committed to ensuring that justice, fairness, and equity prevail, and the outcome of the investigation will be made public in due course.
We extend our deepest condolences to the family of the deceased and wish the injured a speedy recovery.
SP UGBO IRENE, ANIPR
Police Public Relations Officer,
Cross River State Command.
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