A police inspector, Effiong Bassey, reportedly went on a shooting spree in Calabar, Cross River State, killing one person and injuring two others.
The Cross River State Police Command confirmed the incident in a statement on Sunday, March 23, saying it occurred at the Divisional Police Headquarters in Atakpa.
According to the command’s spokesperson, Ugbo Irene, Bassey had just returned from night duty at Ekondo Microfinance Bank when he began exhibiting “abnormal behaviour.”
“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,” the statement read.
She added that when tactical units and patrol teams arrived to contain the situation, Bassey opened fire, hitting bystanders.
“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.
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“The other two victims, Charles Mkpang and another individual, are currently receiving medical treatment and are in stable condition,” Irene said.
The police confirmed that Bassey was eventually subdued and disarmed. He is now in custody as investigations continue.
Following 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 injured were being treated. The AIG also made a donation to support their medical care.
The command urged the public to remain calm, assuring that the matter would be thoroughly investigated.
“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,” the statement added.