Cross River State governor, Bassey Out has ordered the arrest of 14 persons and some others for their involvement in the gruesome murder of one Madam Martina Okey Itagbor of Old Netim, in Akamkpa Local Government Area of the state.

The late mother of four was burnt by the group led by Christopher Sunday and Festus Etim Umoh. She was accused of witchcraft.

As contained in a statement signed by the governor’s chief press secretary, Emmanuel Ogbeche, Out said, “I have directed the Commissioner of Police in the state to mobilise all tactical and investigative assets and ensure that the perpetrators of this heinous act are brought to justice.”

The governor condemned the barbaric act, saying such can’t be abhorred in the state.

“Our people must do away with all relics of culture that promote violence, murder, and criminality such as in this instance.

“Let me warn against such acts as we have laws and statutes to deal with issues of wrongdoings and disagreements,” Out stated.

The governor stressed that his administration is committed to securing the lives and properties of the people.

“As an administration committed to the People’s First Agenda, my administration will be intolerant to acts capable of breaching the peace, endangering citizens and businesses, and portraying the state in a bad light.”

While commiserating with the family of the deceased, Out summoned the community and religious leaders, and civil society organisations to educate the people to respect constituted authority and the rule of law.

The governor said that anyone who takes laws into his hands shall bear the consequences. (Saturday PUNCH)