The Cross River State Police Command has recorded significant breakthroughs in its ongoing efforts to combat crime and maintain peace and order across the State. Within the review period of May 1 to May 26, 2025, the Command arrested a total of nineteen (19) suspects involved in various criminal activities ranging from cultism and arson to rape, fraud, and drug trafficking.
This was disclosed during a press briefing by the Commissioner of Police, Cross River State Command, CP Olusegun E. Omosanyin, PSC (+), fdc, who reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to robust security coverage through intelligence-led operations and community-based policing strategies. He commended the dedication of officers and men of the Command and emphasized the shared responsibility of ensuring safety in the State.
Ritualist Apprehended in Calabar
On May 19, 2025, at approximately 3:50 a.m., operatives from the Anti-Kidnapping Squad responded to a distress call from a hotel manager along Asari Eso Street, Calabar. A 24-year-old suspect, Larry Sanyu, was arrested while allegedly performing incantations on the premises. Items recovered include a sword, small mortar and pestle, candles, charms, and personal effects. He has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) for further investigation.
Cultism and Arson: Seven Suspects Arrested in Etung
On May 9, 2025, seven suspected members of the Neo Black Movement of Africa (Black Axe) were arrested by soldiers from Afi Barracks and handed over to the police after being linked to cult-related violence and arson in Itaga Community, Etung. Recovered from the suspects were six locally made firearms. The suspects, who have confessed to the crimes, are in custody and will be prosecuted upon the conclusion of investigations.
Rape Suspect Nabbed
On May 13, 2025, one Sanda Umaru was arrested for allegedly raping an 18-year-old neighbor who had asked for his help with a generator. The case has been transferred to the Gender Unit of the State CID.
Advance Fee Fraud and Drug Abuse Ring Busted
The Command’s Surveillance Unit arrested eight suspects between May 16 and 18, 2025, for involvement in advance fee fraud, identity theft, and drug-related offenses in Calabar. The suspects, ranging from 16 to 33 years of age, were apprehended at Musaha Street and Ebuka Street. A search of their residences revealed quantities of illicit drugs. They will be charged to court upon completion of investigations.
28 Bags of Suspected Indian Hemp Recovered
In a separate operation on May 18, 2025, operatives from the Anti-Cultism Squad intercepted a J5 vehicle suspected of conveying Indian Hemp in Usong Esuk, Odukpani LGA. Upon sighting the police, the suspects abandoned the vehicle and fled. Twenty-eight (28) bags of the substance were recovered and will be handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further action.
Murder Suspect in Custody
On May 21, 2025, a resident of Esuk Utan Road, Calabar, reported the murder of one Emeka Ebube Owne, a.k.a. Mohammed. The suspect, Okwudili Onuk Elom, allegedly struck the victim with a standing fan head during a fight, resulting in the victim’s death. The suspect then reportedly locked the room and stole some of the deceased’s property. He has since been arrested, confessed to the crime, and is awaiting prosecution.
Commissioner Reassures Public
CP Omosanyin urged residents and visitors to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to the authorities. He emphasized that policing is a collective effort and reiterated the Command’s commitment to professionalism and global best practices in crime fighting.
“The Cross River State Police Command remains unwavering in its mission to create a safe and secure environment for all. With the continued cooperation of the public, we can build a peaceful and prosperous State,” CP Omosanyin stated.
Signed:
SP Ugbo Irene, ANIPR
Police Public Relations Officer
For: Commissioner of Police
Cross River State Command
For more updates, visit the Cross River State Police Command’s official communication channels.
