The Anti-Cult Squad of the Cross River State Police Command has apprehended a 45-year-old man, Ofem Owari, with an automatic pump-action gun, along the Ikom-Calabar Highway.
Owari was allegedly attempting to conceal himself behind a tree near Igbofia Camp with the gun, one expended cartridge, one live cartridge, and a cutlass before he was arrested by the police.
In a statement on Wednesday, the state Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Ugbo Irene, said officers from the command’s Anti-Cult Squad arrested the suspect.
The statement said the suspect was intercepted following a brief chase, having claimed to be employed as a security guard by an unnamed company.
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When questioned by the police, he was unable to provide a credible explanation for his presence on the highway or for carrying the weapon at such an hour, the statement further said.
The police said Owari is currently in custody and under interrogation, while investigations continue to determine his possible involvement in other criminal activities.
Commenting on the arrest, the state Commissioner of Police, Rashid Afegbua, reiterated his commitment to maintaining peace and security throughout the festive season.
The command urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security personnel by reporting suspicious movements or activities to the nearest police station.
