By Abasi Ita
The Cross River State Police Command has arrested two suspects in connection with an alleged murder incident reported in the Afokang community of Calabar South Local Government Area.
The suspects, a man and a woman, were taken into custody following reports from residents linking them to the alleged killing of a young woman.
According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Sunday Eitokpah, the incident was reported on Tuesday morning by a correctional officer who informed the police that members of the community had apprehended individuals suspected to be connected to a murder case.
Police officers from the Efut Division subsequently responded to the scene and took custody of the suspects.
Eitokpah said preliminary interrogation was conducted, during which both suspects denied any knowledge of or involvement in any murder.
He clarified that contrary to claims circulating on social media, no corpse was discovered at the location during the police visit.
However, investigators observed traces of blood around a soakaway pit within the premises. One of the suspects reportedly explained that the blood resulted from an old injury sustained on his leg.
The police spokesperson noted that the circumstances surrounding the incident warranted a thorough investigation to establish the facts.
He said the suspects and the case file have been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department for further investigation.
The arrests followed allegations by residents that a woman was lured to the suspects’ residence and later killed, with parts of her body allegedly removed. Neighbours reportedly became suspicious after noticing bloodstains around the apartment and alerted security authorities.
Eitokpah assured residents that detectives are working to determine the true circumstances surrounding the allegations and whether any criminal offence was committed.
“Investigations are ongoing. Further updates will be provided as credible facts emerge,” he stated.
The police urged members of the public to remain calm and refrain from spreading unverified information while investigations continue.
