From Musa Muhammad Kutama, Calaba,
The Cross River State Police Command has clarified reports circulating on social media regarding the presence of a group of individuals allegedly camping around Mary Slessor Avenue, opposite the Calabar Zoo, in Calabar, the Cross River State capital.
In a statement signed and issued to the media by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eitokpah Sunday Akata, the Command said a patrol team was immediately deployed to the area following the reports in order to verify the situation.
According to the statement, the investigation revealed that the individuals were not an unidentified or suspicious group as earlier speculated. Rather, they are mostly street children and vulnerable youths, the majority of whom are indigenes of Cross River State, while others are from neighbouring states.
The Command explained that many of the children reportedly left their homes due to factors such as lack of parental care, neglect, and other social challenges affecting their upbringing.
Further findings showed that the children are already known to humanitarian organisations and concerned individuals who regularly provide them with food, clothing, and other forms of assistance.
During the police visit, representatives of Street Aid Nigeria, a non-governmental organisation working with vulnerable children, were also present and confirmed ongoing efforts to sensitise and reunite the children with their families.
The command commended members of the public for their vigilance, noting that the reports prompted timely verification of the situation.
It urged residents to continue reporting suspicious activities and security concerns through appropriate channels, stressing that public cooperation remains vital to effective policing.
The statement further confirmed that no security threat was identified during the investigation.
However, the command assured that it will continue to monitor the area and collaborate with relevant stakeholders, humanitarian organisations, and government agencies to ensure public safety and support ongoing welfare interventions for the affected children.
The Cross River State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to the protection of lives and property, as well as the promotion of a safe, secure, and inclusive environment for all residents of the state.
