The Cross River State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of three suspects in connection with the killing of a suspected armed robber in Calabar, following a mob attack that occurred in the early hours of Sunday.
According to the Police Anti-Kidnapping Unit, the incident happened in the Abangasang area along Mbora Street, where the suspected robber allegedly attempted to rob a female resident. The attempt reportedly triggered public outrage, leading residents and passersby to apprehend the suspect and subject him to severe beating.
In a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, ASP Sunday Eitokpah, the police said officers arrived at the scene and intervened to stop the mob action. However, by the time the suspect was rescued, he had sustained serious injuries and was unconscious.
“The suspect was rushed to a nearby hospital for medical attention, but he was later pronounced dead by medical personnel,” the statement said.
The police spokesperson disclosed that during the operation, officers recovered a locally made firearm from the suspect, confirming that he was allegedly armed at the time of the attempted robbery.
ASP Eitokpah further revealed that three individuals believed to have played key roles in the mob assault have been arrested and are currently in custody for interrogation. He noted that investigations were ongoing to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident and to identify other participants in the mob action.
The police warned members of the public against taking the law into their own hands, stressing that mob justice remains illegal and undermines the rule of law.
“The Command reiterates that jungle justice is a criminal act. Suspects should be handed over to law enforcement agencies for proper investigation and prosecution,” the statement added.
The police urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information that could help prevent crime and ensure justice is served.
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