The Cross River State Police Command has dismissed reports alleging the infiltration of bandits into parts of Akamkpa Local Government Area and the Calabar metropolis, describing the claims as false, misleading, and capable of causing unnecessary panic among residents.
The Command also warned individuals and groups against disseminating unverified information that could threaten public peace, undermine confidence in security institutions, or incite disorder, stressing that such actions may attract sanctions under relevant laws.
The clarification follows a wave of social media reports claiming that suspected bandits had been arrested in Calabar and Akamkpa, alongside allegations that criminal elements had infiltrated the state.
However, despite the police denial, concerns persist among residents over the increasing presence of unfamiliar persons in forests across Boki and Akamkpa Local Government Areas, as well as in riverine communities of Odukpani LGA. Locals allege that many of the newcomers are engaged in illegal mining activities, while armed individuals have reportedly been harassing farmers and allowing cattle to destroy farmlands.
In a statement signed by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, ASP Eitokpah Sunday Akata, the police maintained that investigations and intelligence assessments found no evidence to support the circulating claims.
“The Command categorically states that these claims are entirely false, misleading, and calculated to create unnecessary fear, panic, and anxiety among residents and visitors to Cross River State,” the statement read.
According to Akata, preliminary investigations, security assessments, and intelligence reviews conducted by the police revealed that the reports were not backed by any credible security record, arrest report, or intelligence from the police or any sister security agency operating in the state.
He specifically refuted claims that bandits were arrested at the NYSC Orientation Camp in Calabar, noting that no intelligence report indicates the presence or infiltration of any organised bandit group in Cross River State.
“The images and narratives accompanying the social media publications were designed to misinform the public, create unnecessary panic, and distort the true security situation in the state,” he added.
The police spokesperson further disclosed that the Command, in collaboration with other security agencies, has intensified security measures across the state through intelligence-led operations, surveillance activities, and strategic patrols aimed at safeguarding lives and property.
While urging residents to remain calm and continue their lawful activities without fear, Akata encouraged members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements or activities through the Command’s emergency lines: 07053355415 and 07041777060.
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