Cross River police arrest three suspected armed robbers in Calabar

The Cross River State Police have arrested three suspected armed robbers in Calabar after they responded to a distress call from a motorist on September 2, 2024.

The spokesperson of the command, SP Irene Ugbo, said in a statement on Friday that operational weapons, including locally produced short guns, were recovered during the operation.

According to the statement, the motorist, who was travelling from Ikom to Calabar, said he was ambushed by a group of armed robbers who blocked the federal highway near Iwuru village in Akamkpa Local Government Area. The robbers allegedly stole valuables worth ₦455,000.

Upon receiving the call, operatives of the Anti-Cultism and Kidnapping Squad (ACKS) of the Uyanga Command quickly mobilized to the scene. Using intelligence, they tracked the suspects to their hideout where three male suspects were arrested: Sunday Sunday Udo, 27; Godday Friday Essien, 22; and Kufre Edet Umoren, 33.

During the operation, police recovered a locally made short gun, three machetes and a short iron pipe. The suspects remain in custody and will be prosecuted after the investigation is completed.

Reacting to the arrests, the Cross River State Commissioner of Police, CP Gyogon Augustine Grimah, commended the officers for their swift action and urged residents to remain vigilant. He stressed the importance of reporting suspicious activities and assured the public of continued efforts to ensure security in the state.

CP Grimah also commended the cooperation between the police and the public and reaffirmed the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property in Cross River.