The Anti-Kidnapping Unit of the Cross River State Police Command has disclosed that it stepped in to stop a mob from lynching a suspected armed robber in Calabar, leading to the recovery of a firearm and the arrest of three individuals.

The incident occurred in the early hours of Sunday in the Abangasang area along Mbora Street, where the suspect was alleged to have attempted to rob a woman. According to the police, the suspect was attacked by an enraged crowd before officers arrived at the scene.

In a statement released on Sunday, the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Sunday Eitokpah, explained that operatives intervened to disperse the mob and restore order. During the operation, a Beretta pistol loaded with three live 9mm rounds was recovered, and three persons linked to the mob assault were taken into custody.

The suspect, who sustained severe injuries during the attack, was rushed to the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital for treatment but was later confirmed dead. His identity has not yet been established.

Police authorities stated that the deceased’s body has been deposited at the UCTH mortuary for autopsy, while investigations into the circumstances surrounding the incident are ongoing. The three arrested suspects are currently assisting investigators.

Reacting to the development, the Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Rashid Afegbua, described the intervention as evidence of the command’s resolve to prevent crime, safeguard lives, and uphold the rule of law. He strongly condemned mob justice and advised members of the public to report suspects to law enforcement agencies rather than taking the law into their own hands.

The incident highlights continued efforts by security agencies to address armed robbery and curb vigilante violence in urban centres, as authorities repeatedly warn that extrajudicial actions often hinder investigations and result in avoidable loss of life.