The Cross River State Police Command today reported a tragic incident at the Atakpa Divisional Police Headquarters in Calabar. Inspector Effiong Bassey, returning from duty at the Ekondo Microfinance Bank, exhibited erratic behavior, refusing to relinquish his AK-47 rifle and barricading the station entrance.
Escalating the situation, the officer reportedly opened fire on bystanders, striking three individuals. Ijeoma Wilson Obot, 41, succumbed to her injuries. Two others, Charles Mkpang and a yet-unnamed individual, are receiving treatment and are in stable condition.
Initial reports suggest the officer may have been experiencing a mental health crisis. Police Tactical Units were deployed, and the officer was eventually subdued and taken into custody.
The Assistant Inspector General of Police for Zone 6 and the Cross River State Police Command leadership visited the victims in the hospital and provided aid to the families. Further investigations into the incident are underway.
Read also:
Why Wike Revoked Property Belonging to PDP
The police command reiterated their commitment to a thorough investigation and assured the public and affected families that the findings will be made public in due course. They offered condolences to the family of the deceased and wished a swift recovery for the injured. Efforts are ongoing to de-escalate any community tension.
