A tragic shooting incident occurred in Calabar, Cross River State, on Sunday, when an inspector with the Police Command allegedly opened fire, killing a woman and injuring two other people. The policeman, identified as an officer stationed at the Atakpa Divisional Police Station, reportedly acted erratically before the fatal shootings.
The shooting took place after the officer had returned from a night duty at a microfinance bank. According to a statement from the spokesperson of the Cross River State Police Command, SP Irene Ugbo, the officer’s behavior had become increasingly strange upon his return to the station. Sources close to the incident revealed that the officer blocked the entrance gate of the station, preventing both entry and exit. Attempts by his colleagues to peacefully engage and disarm him failed.
“He blocked the gate of the station and refused everyone exit and entry into the facility. All efforts to disarm him through peaceful dialogue proved abortive,” SP Irene Ugbo stated.
As tensions escalated, tactical teams were dispatched to the scene, but the officer, who was reportedly becoming more agitated, started shooting sporadically. In the process, three people were shot. Among the victims was a 41-year-old woman, identified as the wife of a retired police officer, who died from her injuries. The other two victims, whose identities have not been disclosed, were seriously injured and are currently receiving medical treatment.
The suspect was arrested shortly after the shooting, and an investigation into the incident has already been initiated by the police. SP Ugbo confirmed the arrest of the officer but did not provide further details on the motive behind the tragic act. She also reassured the public that the injured victims were receiving appropriate medical care.
The tragic event has left many in shock, raising questions about the officer’s state of mind prior to the shootings and what could have led to such an outburst of violence. There are also concerns about the increasing number of incidents involving police officers and firearms in recent months.
The Cross River Police Command is currently working with the relevant authorities to investigate the cause of the incident and ensure that justice is served. The killing of the officer’s wife, in particular, has sent shockwaves through the police community and the wider public, as many struggle to comprehend how a law enforcement officer could commit such a horrific act.
Members of the community have expressed their condolences to the family of the deceased woman, a mother and wife who was reportedly going about her day before the tragedy unfolded. Many have also called for greater scrutiny and accountability in the handling of firearms by police officers, as well as more stringent mental health assessments for officers who may be under stress.
While the full details of the officer’s actions are still under investigation, the incident has once again highlighted the importance of addressing mental health concerns within the Nigerian police force. Stress, trauma, and difficult working conditions have long been a part of police work, and many have raised concerns about the toll this takes on officers’ mental health and well-being.
Experts have previously called for the implementation of better support systems, including counselling and regular mental health checkups for law enforcement officers. Such measures, they argue, could help prevent tragic events like the one that unfolded in Calabar.
As investigations continue, both the families of the victims and the general public are demanding justice for the lives lost and affected by the shooting. Many are hopeful that the legal system will hold the responsible officer accountable for his actions and provide the victims and their families with the justice they deserve.
The police command’s response to the incident has been largely one of shock and mourning, with statements of regret and assurances that the situation will be fully investigated. The Cross River State Governor, Ben Ayade, has also expressed his condolences to the families affected by the violence and called for calm as investigations unfold.
The tragic shooting in Calabar serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of unaddressed mental health issues in law enforcement and the importance of ensuring that police officers receive the proper support to carry out their duties safely and responsibly.
