The Cross River State Police Command has confirmed a tragic shooting incident that occurred earlier today at the Divisional Police Headquarters in Atakpa, Calabar, resulting in the death of one person and injuries to two others.
According to a press release issued by the Command, the incident unfolded at approximately 5:55 a.m. when Inspector Effiong Bassey, an officer attached to the division, returned from night duty at Ekondo Microfinance Bank. Inspector Bassey reportedly exhibited abnormal behavior, refusing to hand over his assigned AK-47 rifle and blocking the station’s gate, preventing entry or exit.
Despite attempts by colleagues to de-escalate the situation through dialogue, Inspector Bassey’s actions grew increasingly erratic. Tactical units and patrol teams were deployed to the scene, but the situation took a tragic turn when the officer opened fire on bystanders who had been instructed to leave the area.
Three individuals were struck by stray bullets during the incident. Ijeoma Wilson Obot, a 41-year-old woman, tragically succumbed to her injuries, while the other two victims, Charles Mkpang and an unnamed individual, are currently receiving medical treatment and are reported to be in stable condition.
Inspector Bassey was eventually subdued and disarmed by responding officers. He is now in police custody and is undergoing further investigation. Authorities have not ruled out the possibility of mental health issues contributing to his actions.
In the aftermath of the incident, the Assistant Inspector General of Police for Zone 6 Headquarters, Calabar, alongside the Cross River State Command Management Team, visited the hospital where the victims are being treated. The AIG made a donation to support the immediate medical care of the injured.
The Police Command has also initiated efforts to engage with community stakeholders to de-escalate tensions and ensure calm in the area. In a statement, the Command urged the families of the victims and the public to remain patient as investigations continue.
“The Cross River State Police Command is committed to ensuring that justice, fairness, and equity prevail in this matter,” said SP Ugbo Irene, the Police Public Relations Officer for the Command. “The outcome of the investigation will be made public in due course.”
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