By Kelvin Ololo
Tension erupted at Utuhu Junction in Obanliku Local Government Area of Cross River State following the alleged shooting of a young man by a police officer during an attempted arrest.
The victim, identified as Peter Odey, was reportedly shot while trying to evade arrest by police officers who were acting on intelligence about suspected gambling activities at the junction.
The incident triggered unrest among youths in the area before calm was restored through the intervention of the member representing Obudu/Bekwarra/Obanliku Federal Constituency, Hon. Peter Akpanke, whose convoy encountered the aggrieved youths at the scene.
An eyewitness, who narrated the incident to Hon. Akpanke, said police operatives arrived at Utuhu Junction following information that some individuals were engaged in gambling. According to the account, the officers arrested Peter and another individual who was also reportedly injured into their patrol van. Peter allegedly attempted to jump out of the moving vehicle and flee, prompting a police officer to fire at him, with the bullet reportedly hitting his abdomen.
The injured man was immediately rushed to Sacred Heart Hospital, Obudu, where he is currently receiving medical attention.
Addressing the aggrieved youths, Hon. Akpanke appealed for calm and urged them not to take the law into their hands, assuring that the matter would be thoroughly investigated.
“I will take it to the appropriate quarters and make sure justice is done,” he said.
He assured the community that he would visit the hospital to check on the condition of the victim.
Utuhu Junction is one of the busiest intersections in Obanliku Local Government Area due to its strategic connectivity to several communities, including Sankwala, the council headquarters, Bebi, home to the Obudu Cattle Ranch, Bede, Leshiche; Obudu; and parts of Benue State.
The junction serves as a major commercial hub, witnessing heavy vehicular movement, youth activities, and vibrant business transactions throughout the day.
Confirming the incident, the Cross River State Police Command spokesman, ASP Eitokpah Sunday, said an investigation has been launched to ascertain the root cause of the incident. He said the victims are receiving medical treatment.
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