Randy Police Officer goes on shooting spree, kill four, injure many others in Calabar

A tragic incident unfolded in Calabar, Cross River State, on Sunday, March 23, when an armed police officer Effiong Bassey reportedly went on a shooting spree, leaving at least four people dead.

Eyewitnesses at Atakpa Junction, near Watt Market, recounted that the officer, who appeared mentally unstable, barricaded the busy road and started shooting sporadically at innocent civilians.

The sudden gunfire caused panic, forcing people to flee for safety.

Unfortunately, four individuals were hit by bullets and later confirmed dead.

Findings showed that when the policeman returned from his beat, he allegedly refused to return the AK 47 he used for the night duty, but rather cocked the rifle and threatened to shoot his colleagues.

A security source who pleaded anonymity told our correspondents that, “Inspector Bassey who was on night duty at a Microfinance Bank in Calabar South started being hostile and erratic when he returned from night duty to Atakpa Divisional Police station.

“He blocked the gate of the station, refused anyone exit or entry into the facility, all efforts to disarm him through peaceful dialogue proved abortive,” the sources added.

Further findings revealed that tactical teams were later mobilized to the scene and when he sighted them, he became apprehensive and started shooting indiscriminately.

“In the process, he shot three persons including Mrs. Ijoema Obot , 41, wife of a retired police officer and two others.

“Mrs. Obot was confirmed dead at police clinic while two others are been treated,” sources told our sources.

When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer, Irene Ugbo, confirmed the incident.

“The matter is under control, we have arrested the suspect, and the victims are receiving treatment as we speak,” Ugbo said