The Cross River State Police Command has arrested a murder suspect in connection with the alleged killing of a 42-year-old man at Kekoti, Ajere, in Yakurr Local Council.

The command also launched a manhunt for persons who allegedly attacked the Ekori Police Division following the arrest.

In a statement signed by the spokesperson, ASP Eitokpah Sunday Akata, the command said the incident occurred at about 1:00 a.m. on September 27, 2026, following an alleged dispute over N500.

According to the police, the victim, Ayei Ekpe Ibor, 42, of Okonobngha, Ajere, was allegedly stabbed during an altercation with Ebino Mbang Ikpi, a resident of Kekoti, Ajere.

The disagreement reportedly arose over the money said to have been given as a gift to both men.

Ibor was confirmed dead following the stabbing, while the suspect reportedly fled the scene.

The police said operatives immediately commenced a search for the suspect and the recovery of the deceased’s remains for medical certification.

At about 8:40 a.m. the same day, operatives reportedly tracked and arrested Ikpi at his hideout in the Ajere-Ekori area. He was subsequently taken to the Yakurr Police Division for detention and further investigation.

However, shortly after the arrest, tension reportedly escalated as sympathisers and other persons mobilised and attacked the Ekori Police Division, demanding the release of the suspect.

The police said the group, upon discovering that the suspect was not at the station, allegedly resorted to throwing stones at the facility, damaging seven windows, the DPO/DCO office door, six plastic chairs, a wall mirror, part of the roofing and the passenger-side window of the DPO’s official vehicle.

The mob also allegedly attacked the residence of the Ajere Youth Leader, Omini Jacob, accusing him of assisting the police.

Police operatives responded by dispersing the crowd and restoring normalcy. The station has since been reinforced by the Area Commander, Ugep, and the Violence Response and Control Unit (VCRU), Ugep.

The Commissioner of Police, Cross River State Command, Ajo Geoffrey Ordue, has directed that the murder suspect be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department for further investigation and prosecution.

He also ordered intensified efforts to identify and arrest all those allegedly involved in the attack and destruction of police and private property. (The Guardian)