Traditional Ruler Arrested For Kidnapping In Cross River, His Sons On The Run

The suspects

 

The traditional ruler of Obufa Obio, Ekong Anaku Akan Esio Clan, Calabar South LGA of Cross River State, Chief Okon Essien has been arrested for alleged kidnapping by "Operatipn Akpakwu", a security outfit set up by Governor Ben Ayade to tackle the menace of insecurity in the state.

He was arrested at his residence at Community Road off Jebbs Street, Calabar South LGA.

Addressing journalists in Calabar, Commander 13 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brig. Gen. Abdullahi Mohammed, stated that preliminary investigation showed that the traditional rulers two sons Vector Okon who is about 21 years old and Offiong Okon age 20 alleged to be in charge of kidnapping operations are now at large.

Speaking on behalf of the 13 Brigade Commander, while handing the suspected kidnapper alongside other other criminal /armed robbery suspects at the headquarters of 13 Brigade Nigerian Army Akim Barracks Calabar to authority of the Nigerian police Command, Officer Commanding 13 Brigade Provost, Major Stanley Ikpeme in his words said, “Consequently, I am directed to hand over the suspects to you for further investigation and possible prosecution.

”You are please requested to furnish this office with the outcome of your investigation to enable us update our record ”  representative of the Brigade Commander maintained.

Also paraded along with the traditional were suspected armed robbers who had with them charms used for roberry operations.

The suspects who were handed over to the police for prosecution were 26-year-old James Edet said have dispossessed members of his community around the Scanobo Filling station axis of their valuables until he met his Waterloo and was held by the troops.

The troops also arrested 23 years old Mr. Felix Helekpa said to be in possession of a locally made pistol, a cartridge and charms used to aid his robbery operations with other gang members now at large.

Others also arrested include 22 years Blessing Effiom suspected to be an informant that aides operations of a particular criminal gang.

In a brief interview with suspects, some denied their involvement in the crime giving different reasons on why they were arrested by the security operative.