Effiong Bassey, a police officer serving at the Divisional Police Headquarters in Atakpa, Calabar, Cross River State has been arrested for allegedly shooting sporadically and killing a citizen.
The horrific event was said to have occurred on Sunday at approximately 05:55 hrs after Bassey returned from his night duty at Ekondo Microfinance Bank, displaying unusual behavior.
Ugbo Irene, spokesperson of the Cross River State Police Command, shared that Bassey refused to hand over the AK-47 rifle assigned to him and restricted access to the entrance and exit routes of the police premises.
Irene also revealed that peaceful dialogue to resolve the situation proved abortive as the officer’s behavior escalated.
“Subsequently, Tactical Units/Patrol teams were deployed to the scene, where Inspector Bassey, suspected to be mentally deranged, opened fire on bystanders who had been instructed to leave the area,” Irene said.
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Among the three individuals who were hit by bullets from Bassey’s gun, Ijeoma Obot, a 41-year-old female victim, died from the injuries she sustained.
Additionally, two male victims, Charles Mkpang and another victim (name withheld), are receiving treatment at an undisclosed hospital.
The spokesperson confirmed that both men are in good condition.
Irene added, “The officer was eventually subdued, disarmed, and is now in police custody. He is undergoing further investigation into 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 victims are receiving care.
“The AIG also made a donation to support the immediate treatment of the injured. Efforts to engage with key stakeholders are ongoing to ensure that the tension in the community is de-escalated.
“The Police Command urges the families of the victims and the public to remain calm as the investigation into this unfortunate incident continues.
“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 recent attack has raised concerns about the mental health of security officers, urging authorities to assess their mental health status to prevent further fatalities.
