The police command in Cross River has arrested a 36-year-old suspected armed robber, Ushie Joseph, over an alleged robbery and shooting in Effraya Village.

The incident occurred in Etung Local Government Area of the state, the command’s spokesperson, ASP Sunday Eitokpah, said in a statement on Saturday.

Mr Eitokpah said Mr Joseph, allegedly a member of a local vigilante group, was arrested during an intelligence-led operation by police operatives.

He said the incident occurred at about 11:00 p.m. on September 16, when the suspect allegedly attacked and shot Amachi Victor, 36, during a robbery.

According to him, Mr Victor sustained a gunshot injury and was immediately rushed to a hospital in Ikom, where he is receiving treatment.

“The victim alleged that he was robbed of 5,000 U.S. dollars during the incident.

“The police have visited both the scene of the incident and the hospital as part of ongoing investigations,” he said.

Mr Eitokpah said police operatives subsequently tracked the suspect to his hideout, where he was arrested.

He added that a locally fabricated pistol, suspected to have been used in the attack, was recovered and secured as an exhibit.

The spokesperson stressed that the allegation that Mr Victor was robbed of $5,000 remained subject to investigation.

He said the claim would be established through evidence and due legal process.

Mr Eitokpah quoted the Commissioner of Police, Ajo Ordue, as directing the investigating team to conduct a thorough and professional investigation.

Mr Ordue also directed the team to ensure that all relevant evidence was properly documented and the suspect subjected to due process.

The command assured members of the public that further developments would be communicated as the investigation progresses. 

(NAN)