By Kelvin Obambon
The Cross River State Police Command has announced the arrest of a 24-year-old man, Fode Bassey, in connection with a violent armed robbery, cultism, and the unlawful possession of a firearm.
The arrest follows a swift investigation into a report filed on March 29, 2026, by a victim identified as Edim. According to police report, the victim was ambushed by a four-man gang armed with cutlasses and a firearm. During the assault, the gang inflicted injuries on the victim’s left hand and threatened him with death before making away with valuables.
The stolen items included a Delight solar battery valued at N185,000 and a cash sum of N326,000, bringing the total loss to over half a million Naira.
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Following the report, police detectives tracked and apprehended Bassey on April 1, 2026. In a statement released by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Sunday Eitokpah, it was revealed that the suspect has already admitted to the crime.
“The suspect confessed to the crime and revealed that he and his accomplices are members of the Vikings Secret Cult Confraternity,” the PPRO stated. He further confirmed that a locally fabricated pistol was recovered from Bassey’s possession at the time of the arrest.
Meanwhile, the State Commissioner of Police, CP Rashid Afegbua, has reassured the public of the command’s dedication to security. According to the statement, the Commissioner pledged his “unwavering commitment to the safety of lives and property across the State,” while urging residents to remain vigilant.
While Fode Bassey remains in custody, the police have intensified efforts to track down the remaining three suspects currently at large.
The Command therefore called on members of the public to provide any useful information that could lead to the swift apprehension of the fleeing gang members.
