By BANNERNEWS Reporter
The Cross River State Police Command has clarified circumstances surrounding a tense confrontation between its operatives and youths at Utuhu Junction in Obanliku Local Government Area, which led to injuries, the temporary loss of police firearms and heightened public concern.
According to the command, the incident occurred during a lawful operation to arrest suspects linked to a reported case of assault occasioning harm, contrary to online claims that the police action was connected to illegal gambling.
The police said the case was reported by one Elizabeth Akinya, while suspects involved include Peter Odey, also known as “Ola,” Michael Ashaba, and others still at large.
The confrontation, the command explained, took place on February 9, 2026, at about 2pm, when the suspects allegedly resisted arrest, mobilised youths in the area and attacked the police team.
During the attack, the suspects were said to have forcefully dispossessed the officers of two assault rifles, an action the police described as a serious threat to public safety within the community.
In an effort to prevent the escape of the armed suspects and recover the stolen firearms, one of the suspects, Peter Odey, reportedly sustained a gunshot injury and was immediately taken to Sacred Heart Hospital, Obudu, for medical treatment.
The police further disclosed that three officers who sustained injuries during the clash were rushed to the General Hospital, Sankwala, for treatment.
With the intervention of military tactical teams, community leaders and relevant government authorities, the command said the two assault rifles were successfully recovered, the patrol vehicle retrieved and normalcy restored in the area.
The command added that an internal investigation has been launched into the incident, stressing that no police officer involved is above the law.
Residents of the area were urged to remain calm, refrain from speculation and allow due process to take its course, as the police assured that further updates would be provided as investigations continue.
