Tragedy struck in Calabar as a rogue policeman, Inspector Effiong Bassey, went on a shooting spree, killing three and injuring others. Find out how the horror unfolded and the police response.
Calabar, Cross River State – Fear and panic engulfed the Atakpa area of Calabar after a police inspector identified as Effiong Bassey went berserk, killing three individuals and injuring several others in a shocking early-morning shooting incident.
The chaos erupted around 6:00 am on Sunday at the Atakpa Divisional Police Headquarters, located near the bustling Watt Market. Witnesses reported hearing rapid gunfire as terrified residents and passersby scrambled for safety. The Cross River State Police Command has since moved swiftly to pacify the distraught community
According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, Superintendent Irene Ugbo, Inspector Bassey had returned from a night duty at Ekondo Microfinance Bank when he began exhibiting erratic behavior.
“Upon arrival at the station, he refused to surrender his assigned AK-47 rifle and instead blocked the station’s entrance, preventing movement in and out of the premises,” the statement read. “Despite attempts by fellow officers to de-escalate the situation, he suddenly opened fire, striking innocent bystanders.”
Three people tragically lost their lives due to the unprovoked shooting, including a 41-year-old woman, Ijeoma Wilson Obot. Two others, Charles Mkpang and an unidentified victim, are currently receiving medical treatment and are reportedly in stable condition.
The shocking attack has sent waves of anger and sorrow across Calabar, with many questioning the mental evaluation processes within the police force. Calls for justice have intensified, with residents demanding a thorough investigation into how an armed officer could suddenly snap and unleash terror.
Meanwhile, the Assistant Inspector General of Police, Zone 6 Headquarters, Calabar, Mohammed Bala, alongside the Cross River State Command Management Team, visited the hospital to check on the survivors.
Inspector Bassey has since been overpowered, disarmed, and detained as investigations continue. The police command assured the public that justice would be served, urging calm while the case is thoroughly probed.
The incident has reignited debates on police welfare, mental health screening for officers, and firearm handling policies. Critics argue that the failure to properly assess officers’ mental stability before and during service poses a significant risk to public safety.
The Cross River State Police Command has pledged to review its internal protocols to prevent a recurrence of such a tragic event.
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