Search

Newsletter image

Subscribe to the Newsletter

Join 10k+ people to get notified about new posts, news and tips.

Do not worry we don't spam!

GDPR Compliance

We use cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. By continuing to use our site, you accept our use of cookies, Privacy Policy, and Terms of Service.

Cross River: Atakpa Police Station cordoned off after inspector’s deadly shooting spree

Published on March 27, 2025 at 02:32 PM

The Atakpa Police Station in Calabar remains cordoned off nearly a week after a shocking shooting spree by Inspector Effiong Bassey, who went berserk last Sunday morning, killing innocent passersby.

Fear of reprisal attacks from the victims' families and friends has led to heightened security around the station, with four police vans stationed to deter potential assaults.

Inspector Bassey, now in custody following a magistrate court order, was reportedly under the influence of substances at the time of the attack.

In a statement signed by Superintendent Irene Ugbo, the PRO of the Cross River State Police Command alleged that Bassey had a mental health challenge.

It was Hon. Effiong Ekarika, the lawmaker representing the area, who bravely disarmed Bassey, preventing further bloodshed—a courageous act praised by the state’s acting governor, Dr. Peter Odey.

Tensions escalated after the son of one of the victims, residing in Bayside, threatened to set fire to the police station in retaliation for his mother’s death.

In response, authorities shut down one lane of the usually busy Calabar Road, causing traffic congestion and diversions.

Further investigations revealed disturbing details about Bassey’s private life.

Married to fellow officer Inspector Juliana Iwara, the couple lived in a two-bedroom apartment.

Juliana, who serves at the Area Police Command in Akim, Calabar, has since abandoned her roadside provisions shop out of fear for her safety.

Her neighbors disclosed that Bassey frequently exhibited violent behavior, often assaulting his three little children and destroying his wife’s shop in fits of rage.

In light of this tragic event, the Cross River State chapter of the Nigeria Union of Journalists has called for regular mental health evaluations for security personnel, particularly police officers, to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Prev Article

Exact date Lidl’s garden furniture range returns to stores next week with prices starting at £2.99

Next Article

Governor Namadi approves land for security training facility in Jigawa

Related to this topic:

Comments (0):

Be the first to write a comment.

Post Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *