Police arrest murder suspect, launch manhunt after attack on Ekori Division

Police have apprehended 42-year-old Ebino Mbang Ikpi in connection with the alleged murder of an unidentified individual at Kekoti, Ajere, located within Cross River State's Yakurr Local Government Area. ASP Eitokpah Sunday Akata, the Police Public Relations Officer, revealed this in a statement on Sunday, on behalf of Commissioner of Police, CP Ajo Geoffrey Ordue.

According to the statement, the incident transpired around 1am on Sunday, when Ayei Ekpe Ibor, 42, from Okonobngha, Ajere, was allegedly stabbed following a dispute with Ikpi, who originates from Kekoti. The disagreement apparently ensued over ₦500, which was given as a gift to both men, leading to a heated altercation. Ibor's death was confirmed following the incident.

The Police informed that Ikpi fled the scene but was apprehended at approximately 8:40am at his hideout in the Ajere-Ekori area and subsequently taken to the Yakurr Division for detention and further investigation. The arrest, however, incited a violent response, as Ikpi's supporters and others purportedly rallied and assaulted the Ekori Police Division, demanding the suspect's release.

The assailants, upon realizing Ikpi was no longer present, allegedly hurled stones at the station, causing damage to the facility. Additionally, the residence of the Ajere Youth Leader, Omini Jacob, was reportedly targeted over allegations that he aided the Police. Subsequently, Police operatives dispersed the crowd and restored order, with the area being reinforced by the Ugep Area Commander and the Ugep Violence Crime Response Unit (VCRU).

The Commissioner of Police has directed the transfer of the murder suspect to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for a more thorough investigation. Ordue also emphasized intensified efforts to identify and apprehend those allegedly involved in the attack on the police division and the destruction of public and private property.

The Command urged residents to maintain calm and law-abiding conduct, warning that attacks on police formations, property destruction, and attempts to hinder criminal investigations would be addressed in accordance with the law.