Angry mob beats suspected robber to death in Cross River

Monday, January 26, 2026 - The Cross River State Police Command has arrested three suspects linked to the mob killing of a suspected armed robber in the Abangasang area of Calabar, the state capital.

The command’s Public Relations Officer, Sunday Eitokpah, confirmed the arrest in a statement on Sunday.

Eitokpah said the incident occurred in the early hours of the day when the deceased allegedly attempted to rob a woman.

The police spokesperson said an angry mob attacked and beat the suspect, who was immediately rushed to a hospital, where he was confirmed dead.

The PPRO added that police operatives deployed to the scene recovered a Beretta pistol with live ammunition.

He stated, “The Cross River State Police Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit, in the early hours of Sunday, January 25, 2026, successfully intervened to prevent a mob action against a suspected armed robber who was allegedly attempting to rob a lady in Calabar.

“The operation led to the recovery of a Beretta pistol with three live 9mm rounds of ammunition and the arrest of individuals involved in the mob attack.

“The suspect, who was beaten unconscious by an angry mob at the Abangasang area, Mbora Street, Calabar, was rushed to the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital for medical attention. Unfortunately, the victim, yet to be identified, was pronounced dead at the hospital in the early hours of this morning.”

He added that three suspects were arrested in connection with the incident, while the body of the deceased had been deposited at a morgue for autopsy.

He stressed the command’s zero tolerance for mob action and urged members of the public to always cooperate with the police in fighting crime.

“Three suspects are currently in police custody and are assisting with the ongoing investigation. The victim’s body has been evacuated and deposited at the UCTH mortuary for preservation and autopsy, while a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident continues.

“While reiterating the command’s zero tolerance for violent crime, the CP strongly condemned mob action and emphasised that suspects apprehended by private individuals must always be handed over to the police for proper investigation and prosecution in accordance with the law,” Eitokpah added.