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| CP Rashid B. Afegbua, PSC, MNIPS |
By Oluchi Omai – Calabar, Nigeria
The Cross River State Police Command has successfully intercepted a stolen vehicle and thwarted an attempted escape by suspected armed robbers on the night of Sunday, 5 October 2025.
According to official police reports, the incident occurred at approximately 10:30 p.m. when Mr Ikyum Mark, a resident of Etta Agbor Layout near Hall 2 by the University of Calabar, was accosted at gunpoint. His grey Toyota Camry, bearing registration number YAD 549 ER, was forcefully taken from him by unknown assailants.
Following the attack, Mr Mark promptly reported the incident to the Anti-Cultism Base. The alert was immediately relayed via radio to the Control Room and all night patrol teams across the city. The swift dissemination of information proved critical.
A tactical unit attached to Operation Sting, stationed at the PAMOL checkpoint along the Calabar–Odukpani highway, spotted the stolen vehicle approaching their location. When flagged down, the suspects made a sharp U-turn in an attempt to flee, triggering a high-speed pursuit. Under pressure, the suspects abandoned the vehicle and escaped into the surrounding bush under the cover of darkness.
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| Recovered vehicle |
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| Recovered vehicle |
The police team recovered the vehicle and secured it at the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) for further examination. As of the time of reporting, efforts are ongoing to locate and apprehend the fleeing suspects.
Commenting on the incident, Commissioner of Police, CP Rashid B. Afegbua, PSC, MNIPS, commended the prompt response and coordination among police units. He emphasised the importance of timely reporting by citizens, stating, “Prompt reports of criminal incidents help disrupt illegal activities and enhance our ability to respond effectively.”
CP Afegbua also appealed to residents to continue sharing credible information with the police, noting that community cooperation remains vital to maintaining safety across the state. “Security is a shared responsibility,” he said. “Together, we can keep Cross River safe.”
The Command reiterated its commitment to proactive policing and assured the public that all necessary measures are being taken to bring the perpetrators to justice.
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