Operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) have arrested the alleged leader of the gang linked to the kidnapping and killing of renowned neurology professor, Ekanem Philip Ephraim, who was abducted in 2023.
A credible security source confirmed that the suspects were apprehended on December 27 at a medical facility in Cross River State, where they were allegedly planning to abduct another prominent medical professional. The arrest is seen as a major breakthrough in a case that shocked the academic and medical communities across the country.
Those taken into custody include the suspected gang leader, Patrick Essien Etim, 23, and his alleged accomplice, Bassey Antiha Asuquo, 40. Security officials said the operation was intelligence-driven, following weeks of surveillance and tracking by DSS operatives.
Professor Ephraim, a respected neurologist and academic, was abducted in 2023 and later confirmed dead, sparking widespread outrage and renewed calls for improved security for professionals, particularly in the health and education sectors.
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Confirming the development in a post on social media on Monday, journalist Oseni Rufai said the arrests were made as the suspects attempted to carry out another kidnapping, underscoring what authorities described as a sustained criminal operation targeting medical practitioners.
While the DSS has yet to issue a formal statement, security sources said investigations are ongoing and that the suspects are expected to be transferred to Abuja for further interrogation and possible prosecution.
The arrest has brought cautious relief to colleagues and family members of the slain professor, many of whom have continued to demand justice since his death. Security agencies have reiterated their commitment to dismantling kidnapping networks and preventing further attacks on professionals and vulnerable citizens.