The Cross River State Police Command has sent an unmistakable warning to criminal elements operating in the state with the arrest of two armed suspects and the recovery of an English-made pistol loaded with live ammunition in Ogoja Local Government Area.
According to a statement dated January 30, 2026, and signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eitokpah Sunday, the suspects were intercepted during a routine but highly vigilant stop-and-search operation by operatives of the Ogoja Police Division at Ogbege Abakpa, Ogoja, at about 9:00 a.m. on Friday.
“The suspects, who were riding on a lady motorcycle, were observed moving suspiciously within the area and were promptly flagged down by the patrol team,” the statement said.
Police sources revealed that the suspects attempted to evade arrest by defying lawful police orders and fleeing the scene, prompting a swift pursuit that ended with their arrest.
"A thorough search conducted on one of the suspects, identified as Thomas Anthony, a
26-year-old male, led to the recovery of one English-made Beretta pistol loaded with nine rounds of live ammunition," the Police stated, noting that the recovery underscored the grave threat posed to law-abiding residents.
“The suspects were immediately taken into custody and are currently undergoing intensive investigation. During interrogation, the principal suspect reportedly confessed to unlawfully inheriting the firearm from his late elder brother,” an explanation the Police emphasized "does not excuse the offence under the law."
Reaffirming its zero-tolerance stance, the Police Command declared that no part of Cross River State will serve as a safe haven for criminals, warning that anyone found in possession of illegal firearms or engaged in criminal activities "will be relentlessly pursued and prosecuted in accordance with the law."
The Command further urged residents to remain vigilant and continue to cooperate with security agencies by reporting suspicious movements, as patrols and intelligence-led operations are being intensified across the state to keep Cross River safe and secure.
Kingsley Agim
