Authorities in Cross River State have successfully taken into custody two men accused of perpetrating a "one chance" robbery. The incident involved the forceful ejection of a 20-year-old nursing student from a moving commercial vehicle in Calabar.
The alleged crime took place around 9 AM on Thursday, April 16, 2026. The victim, identified as Goodness, reportedly boarded a minibus operated by the suspects, who were posing as fellow passengers.
According to ASP Eitokpah Sunday Akata, the command's spokesperson, the assailants took the victim's Android phone and other possessions before compelling her to exit the vehicle while it was still in motion. Akata stated that the driver of the minibus stopped, shouted for help, and pursued the fleeing suspects towards the Bogobiri area. This pursuit attracted the attention of nearby residents and security personnel.
Police officers on duty responded swiftly to the distress call, joining the chase and apprehending two individuals identified as Leo Celestine and Ndiana- Abasi William. The victim's phone and other stolen items were recovered from the suspects.
During initial questioning, the apprehended men purportedly admitted to being members of the Vikings confraternity and acknowledged their involvement in a robbery operation targeting unsuspecting commuters.
The Cross River State Police Command confirmed the arrest of Leo Celestine, aged 25, and Ndiana-Abasi William, aged 30, in connection with alleged cultism and "one chance" robbery activities in Calabar. A statement from the command detailed how the suspects, disguised as passengers in a commercial mini bus, attacked the 20-year-old nursing student, Goodness, dispossessing her of her phone and belongings before pushing her out of the vehicle.
The statement further elaborated that the bus driver's immediate action to stop, raise an alarm, and pursue the suspects towards Bogobiri led to police intervention. Responding officers successfully apprehended the suspects, recovering the stolen Android phone and other valuables.
Under interrogation, the suspects are said to have confessed to their membership in the Vikings Confraternity and their modus operandi of robbing the public and selling stolen goods to intermediaries within the city. The police are reportedly working to apprehend other members of the criminal network, including those who receive stolen property.
The command reaffirmed its dedication to safeguarding lives and property, urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities through the provided control room numbers: 07041777060, 07053355415, or to the nearest police station.
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