By BANNERNEWS Reporter, Calabar
The Cross River State Police Command has arrested a 24-year-old suspect, Fode Bassey, over alleged involvement in armed robbery, cultism and unlawful possession of firearm.
Police said the arrest followed a violent attack reported on March 29, 2026, in which a victim identified as Edim was assaulted by four armed youths.
According to the Command, the incident occurred in the early hours, when the assailants, armed with cutlasses and a firearm, attacked the victim and inflicted injuries on his left hand.
The attackers reportedly threatened to kill the victim if he resisted, before dispossessing him of valuables.
Items stolen during the operation included a bag containing a Delight solar battery valued at N185,000, as well as cash totaling N326,000.
Acting on the report, police detectives launched a manhunt that led to the arrest of Bassey on April 1 at about 10:13am.
During interrogation, the suspect reportedly confessed to the crime and disclosed that he and his accomplices are members of the Vikings Secret Cult Confraternity.
Police also recovered a locally fabricated pistol from the suspect at the time of arrest.
The Command said investigation is ongoing, with efforts intensified to track down and apprehend other fleeing members of the gang.
The Commissioner of Police in the state reassured residents of the Command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property across Cross River.
He urged members of the public to remain vigilant and support ongoing investigations by providing useful information to security agencies.
The statement was signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Sunday Eitokpah Akata, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Cross River State Command.
