Operatives of the Cross River State Police Command have foiled a kidnapping attempt and arrested three suspects in Calabar South.
The spokesperson of the command, SP Ugbo Irene, who confirmed the incident in a statement on Thursday, July 24, 2025 said two locally made pistols and one live cartridge were recovered from the suspects.
According to Ugbo, the operation was carried out by the Divisional Police Officer and Surveillance Team from the Uwanse Division following a credible tip-off.
The suspects were intercepted while allegedly attempting to abduct one Mr. Nkereuwem Peter, 38, who resides at No. 35 Eneobong Avenue, Calabar South.
"Following a tipoff, the Divisional Police Officer/ Surveillance team of Uwanse of Cross River State Command intercepted a gang of Kidnapping Syndicate
while attacking and attempting to kidnap one Nkereuwem Peter 'm' age 38yrs. Victim resides at NO. 35 Eneobong Avenue, Calabar South. Upon sighting the police, the gang opened fire on them but were successfully over powered the team," the statement read.
"The Commissioner of Police, CP Rashid B. Afegbua, PSC, mnips in his statement, warned various criminal groups in the State that his mandate from the Force Leadership is to reduce crime to the barest minimum.
"The CP appealed to residents of the State to continue to volunteer timely/useful information to the Police and other relevant security agencies to enable swift actions at all times.
"The suspects arrested are; 1. Henry Efa Otu 'm' age 24yrs o Efut Effioene Street, Calabar, Lawrence Ita Inyang 'm' age 46yrs of NO. 32 Efut Effioene, Calabar and Umoh Ekpo 'm' age 46yrs of NO. 32 Efut Effioene Clan.
"Investigation is heightened aimed at apprehending the fleeing accomplices for diligent prosecution.
“Exhibits recovered includes; two (2) locally made pistols and one live cartridge.”
