The Cross River State Police Command announced on September 19, 2026, that they had taken into custody a 24-year-old student, Emmanuel Ejim, in connection with a viral video that showed suspected cult members firing gunshots from a moving vehicle in Calabar. According to the police, the incident occurred on September 17, 2026, prompting Commissioner of Police, CP Ajo Geoffrey Ordue, to direct the immediate identification and arrest of those involved.
The police launched an intelligence-led operation on September 17, 2026, at about 11:30 p.m., which led to the identification and tracking of the vehicle captured in the viral footage. The operation resulted in the arrest of the vehicle's driver, whose information helped the police trace Ejim to a hotel in Calabar. Ejim, a student of the University of Cross River (UNICROSS), allegedly identified himself as a leader of the Vikings Confraternity.
During questioning, Ejim allegedly admitted to being the person seen firing the shots in the viral video. He also claimed that he participated in a sign-out activity on the day of the incident and that another suspected member of the group handed him the pistol allegedly used in the shooting. The police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the possession of the firearm and the movement of the vehicle.
The Cross River State Police Command warned that the unlawful discharge of firearms in public places constitutes a serious security concern and urged residents to report suspicious movements, possession of firearms, and cult-related activities to the police. The Commissioner of Police directed that the investigation be conducted professionally and comprehensively, with anyone found to have participated in or facilitated the alleged act brought before the law.
The police identified Ejim as a key suspect and stated that efforts had been intensified to identify and arrest other persons linked to the incident. The investigation aims to uncover the motives behind the shooting and the extent of the involvement of other individuals or groups.
The incident has raised concerns about the presence of cult groups in Calabar and the ease with which they can access firearms. The police have assured the public that they will take all necessary steps to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice and that the public is protected from such acts of violence.
The police will provide further updates as the investigation progresses, and the public is urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities. The arrest of Emmanuel Ejim marks a significant step in the investigation, and the police are working to gather more evidence and apprehend other suspects.
Key points
- The Cross River State Police Command arrested Emmanuel Ejim, a 24-year-old student, in connection with a viral video showing gunshots fired from a moving vehicle in Calabar.
- Ejim allegedly identified himself as a leader of the Vikings Confraternity and admitted to firing the shots in the viral video.
- The police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the possession of the firearm and the movement of the vehicle, and efforts are being made to identify and arrest other persons linked to the incident.
