A mentally unstable police officer went on a rampage on Sunday, in Calabar, capital of Cross Rivers, shooting three people, one of whom died instantly.
Gatekeepers News reports that eyewitnesses said the incident took place at Watt Market in Calabar, with some traders among the victims.
Irene Ugbo, spokesperson of the state police command, confirmed the incident, noting that the incident occurred when the officer had just returned from night duty.
She added that the officer failed to submit his rifle after his shift, instead took it outside and opened fire on residents.
Irene said, “He came back from a night duty in the morning and while he was supposed to submit his rifle, he refused to, went outside and started a shooting spree.”
“Before he was held down, three people were hit with stray bullets and one was killed immediately while the two others were rushed to the hospital.”
The spokesperson said the two injured victims were receiving treatment, while the officer had been subdued.
She added that while the officer’s mental state is yet to be officially determined, the police authorities have ordered his immediate dismissal.
Irene said the officer’s dismissal process will be completed by Monday, after which he will face trial.
She said, “Though it hasn’t been ascertained, we suspected he is mentally ill and the AIG has directed that he should be dismissed immediately.”
“By tomorrow, he is going to be dismissed and taken to court to face the full wrath of the law.”
