ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- A police inspector identified as Effiong Bassey has shot three people in Calabar, Cross River State, leaving one dead and two others injured.
The Cross River State Police Command confirmed the incident in a statement on Sunday, describing the situation as “unfortunate and deeply concerning.”
According to the Command’s spokesperson, Ugbo Irene, the incident occurred at the Divisional Police Headquarters in Atakpa, Calabar, in the early hours of Sunday.
Inspector Bassey had just returned from his night duty at Ekondo Microfinance Bank when he began acting erratically.
“Inspector Bassey refused to hand over the AK-47 rifle he was assigned and instead proceeded to block the station’s gate, preventing anyone from entering or leaving the premises. Despite attempts at peaceful dialogue to resolve the situation, the officer’s actions escalated,” the statement read.
As tensions rose, Tactical Units and Patrol teams were dispatched to the scene. However, Bassey, suspected to be mentally unstable, suddenly opened fire on bystanders who had been asked to vacate the area.
READ ALSO: Policeman Shoots Father Of Three Dead In Rivers State
“Tragically, three individuals were struck by the officer’s stray bullets, including Ijeoma Wilson Obot, a 41-year-old female, who later succumbed to her injuries. The other two victims, Charles Mkpang and another individual, are currently receiving medical treatment and are in stable condition,” the statement continued.
The police confirmed that Bassey was eventually overpowered, disarmed, and taken into custody.
He is currently undergoing further investigation to determine the circumstances that led to his violent outburst.
Following 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 injured victims were receiving treatment.
During the visit, the AIG made a donation to support their immediate medical care.
The Cross River State Police Command has assured the public that authorities are working closely with community leaders to de-escalate tensions.
“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 statement concluded.
Residents have been urged to remain calm as the police continue investigations into the tragic shooting.