NIGERIA, CALABAR – The Cross River State Police Command has dismissed allegations of brutality against operatives of its Operation Anti-Kidnapping Unit, following a viral social media video linked to an arrest incident in Calabar.
The Command said the video circulating online misrepresented events surrounding a routine patrol operation carried out by officers of the Anti-Kidnapping Squad, popularly referred to as “Dragon,” on January 15, 2026.
According to information released via the Police Command’s verified social media handle, the incident occurred at about 12:45 p.m. during a township patrol around the Etta-Agbor axis of Calabar metropolis.
Police sources explained that operatives on duty observed a white Mercedes-Benz vehicle displaying what appeared to be a suspicious and improperly assigned registration number, prompting officers to initiate a stop-and-question procedure.
The Command stated that attempts by the patrol team to stop the vehicle were ignored, as the occupants allegedly sped off and drove into a crowded telecommunications gadget complex known as Tonimas, opposite the University of Calabar.
Officers reportedly followed the vehicle into the complex, where further questioning was attempted to establish the true ownership of the car and convey both vehicle and occupants to base for proper investigation.
Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Sunday Eitokpah, MNISMA, said in the statement that the suspect resisted lawful arrest and began inciting members of the public with false allegations of attempted extortion.
The police explained that the suspect’s actions drew the attention of gadget vendors, students, and passers-by, causing tension to escalate rapidly within the commercial environment.
According to the Command, the growing hostility prompted officers at the scene to request operational backup to prevent a breakdown of law and order and ensure the safety of personnel and civilians.
Before reinforcement arrived, the situation reportedly deteriorated, as some members of the crowd allegedly turned violent, pelting officers with stones and sticks during the confrontation.
The statement noted that operatives from Operation Sting, Anti-Cultism, and Paramilitary Intervention, also known as Operation Okowok, were subsequently deployed to stabilize the situation.
Police sources disclosed that the suspect was eventually subdued and placed inside a patrol vehicle, but later jumped out and attempted to flee while violently resisting arrest.
During the ensuing struggle, the Command said the suspect’s shirt was torn, while he also damaged the uniform of one Anti-Kidnapping operative, contradicting claims of unprovoked police assault.
The police added that a combined team of security personnel, including military operatives, re-arrested the suspect and dispersed the agitated crowd to restore calm in the area.
ASP Eitokpah stated that the suspect remains in police custody and will be charged to court for assaulting police officers, resisting lawful arrest, and conduct likely to breach public peace.
Truth live news reports that the Police Command reassured residents that it remains committed to professionalism, respect for human rights, and strict adherence to the rule of law in all its operations across the state.
The Command emphasized that it does not condone misconduct by any officer and would not hesitate to apply appropriate sanctions where violations are established through internal disciplinary procedures.
Members of the public were urged to remain calm, verify information before sharing, and continue cooperating with security agencies to sustain peace and security in Cross River State.
Most Viewed Posts
- BREAKING: Rivers Assembly Crisis Deepens as Two More Lawmakers Withdraw From Fubara’s Impeachment
- BREAKING: Nigerians to Pay 7.5% VAT on Mobile Transfers, USSD Transactions Starting January 19, 2026
- Family Speaks, Says N50 Million Was Paid To Free Kidnapped Medical Doctor In Edo
- Gunmen Kidnap Nine Persons, Demand N100m Ransom In Edo
- SOS: Mother Of Kidnapped Medical Doctor Appeals For Help To Raise N100m Ransom, Says Delay Could Be Dangerous
While the police addressed public concerns over security conduct, Akpabuyo Local Government Area also joined the rest of the country in commemorating the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day.
The event took place on Thursday, January 15, 2026, at the Akpabuyo Local Government Council Secretariat in Ikot Nakanda, drawing a wide spectrum of government officials and community leaders.
Speaking during the ceremony, the Executive Chairman of Akpabuyo LGA, Hon. (Prince) Effiom Bassey Effiong, described the occasion as a solemn moment of reflection and national gratitude.
The Chairman said the remembrance day served as a reminder of the sacrifices made by fallen heroes who gave their lives defending Nigeria’s unity, sovereignty, and collective peace.
Hon. Effiom warned that nations which forget the sacrifices of their heroes risk eroding the foundations of their future, stressing the need for sustained honour and institutional support.
He assured serving and retired members of the Armed Forces and other security agencies that his administration would continue to back policies promoting their welfare and dignity.
According to him, the commitment of veterans and active service personnel remains critical to national stability, particularly amid evolving security challenges facing the country.
The Council Chairman also paid tribute to living veterans, especially members of the Nigerian Legion, Akpabuyo Chapter, acknowledging their courage, resilience, and continued patriotic service.
He commended Cross River State Governor, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, for initiatives aimed at sustaining peace and improving the welfare of veterans and security personnel statewide.
Hon. Effiom urged residents of Akpabuyo to uphold values exemplified by the fallen heroes, including unity, patriotism, peace, and love for the Nigerian nation.
The ceremony attracted several dignitaries, including the Vice Chairman of Akpabuyo LGA, Leader and Councillors of the Legislative Council, and the Secretary of the Council.
Also present were former Council Chairmen, senior professionals, Elder Hon. Abigail Duke JP, Commissioner for Commerce, and various state and local government appointees.
Traditional institutions were represented by the Paramount Ruler of Akpabuyo and members of the Traditional Rulers Council, alongside party leaders and religious representatives.
Security agencies, veterans, wives of fallen heroes, directors, heads of departments, and council staff also attended the event, underscoring its inclusive and symbolic significance.
The highlight of the remembrance ceremony was the laying of wreaths at the cenotaph, led by the Executive Chairman and followed by security chiefs and veterans.
The event concluded on a solemn and patriotic note, reflecting Akpabuyo Local Government Area’s commitment to honouring fallen heroes while promoting unity and collective responsibility.
.
Observers noted that both the police clarification and remembrance ceremony underscored the importance of public trust, accountability, and mutual cooperation in sustaining peace and democratic stability.
