A young man has lost his life after being stabbed during a violent confrontation in Calabar, raising fresh concerns about the growing insecurity linked to gang activities in parts of Cross River State.
The tragic incident happened on Monday along Mary Slessor Road in Calabar, where the victim was reportedly attacked after an altercation with a suspected gang member.
The Cross River State Police Command confirmed the incident through its spokesperson, ASP Sunday Akata. According to the police, the suspect allegedly tracked down the victim, chased him and stabbed him with a knife.
The injured man was immediately taken to the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH) for emergency treatment. However, despite efforts by medical personnel, he later died from the injuries he sustained during the attack.
Police authorities said the victim’s remains have been moved to the General Hospital mortuary, where an autopsy is expected to be carried out.
ASP Akata also disclosed that the suspect has already been arrested and that the case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) for further investigation.
The latest killing comes shortly after another disturbing incident that sparked public outrage in Calabar. Residents had alleged that a young woman was murdered after being invited to an apartment by the girlfriend of a suspect.
Members of the community claimed the suspect attempted to dispose of parts of the victim’s body before he was eventually captured by local vigilantes and handed over to security agencies.
However, the police clarified that no human remains were recovered from the location. Investigators, nevertheless, reportedly found blood stains inside the suspect’s residence during their examination of the scene.
These recent incidents have increased fears among residents, many of whom believe that notorious street gangs known locally as “Skolombo Boys” are becoming active again in several areas of the city.
The groups, largely made up of teenagers and young boys, are often accused by residents of carrying out robberies, violent attacks and other criminal activities. They are also said to operate from abandoned structures, drainage tunnels and public spaces, especially during the night.
As investigations continue, residents are calling on security agencies to intensify efforts to tackle gang-related crimes and restore safety across the city.