Cross River police arrest suspect after fatal stabbing and station attack
Police in Cross River State arrested a man accused of fatally stabbing a 42-year-old man during a dispute over a N500 gift. The arrest was followed by an alleged attack on a police division, where officials said property was damaged; investigators are pursuing both incidents.
Police in Cross River State have arrested Ebino Ikpi, who is accused of stabbing 42-year-old Ayei Ibor to death during a disagreement over a N500 gift. Police spokesperson Sunday Eitokpah said the incident occurred at about 1 a.m. in Kekoti, Ajere, in Yakurr Local Government Area.
The disagreement allegedly escalated into a fight, during which Mr Ibor was stabbed. Mr Ikpi was arrested at about 8:40 a.m. on Sunday at a hideout in the Ajere-Ekori area, hours after the alleged killing.
Police said he had fled the scene, prompting officers to search for him. He was taken to the Yakurr Police Division for detention and further investigation. The state Commissioner of Police, Ajo Ordue, directed that the suspect be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department.
The police said the transfer was for further investigation into the death. The arrest was followed by another incident at the Ekori Police Division. According to Mr Eitokpah, sympathisers and others allegedly gathered at the station demanding the suspect’s release.
After discovering that he was not there, the group allegedly threw stones at the facility. Police said seven windows, an office door, six plastic chairs, a wall mirror and part of the station’s roof were damaged. The passenger-side glass of the divisional police officer’s official vehicle was also allegedly broken.
The residence of Ajere Youth Leader Omini Jacob was also reportedly attacked after people allegedly believed he had helped police arrest the suspect. Officers dispersed the crowd and restored order. Police said they were working to identify and arrest those involved in the attacks.
The investigations into the killing and the alleged property damage are continuing.
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