Cross River Police Debunk ‘Mystery Group’ Threat, Confirm Individuals Were Street Children

Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.

The Cross River State Police Command has allayed public fears following social media reports that suggested the presence of an unidentified and potentially dangerous group camping along Mary Slessor Avenue in Calabar. In a statement issued on Friday, May 29, 2026, the command clarified that the individuals in question were predominantly street children and vulnerable youths, not a security threat. According to the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eitokpah Sunday Akata, a patrol team was immediately deployed to the area opposite the Calabar Zoo after the reports began circulating. The investigation revealed that the group was not an unidentified or suspicious entity as initially speculated. Rather, they are mostly indigenes of Cross River State, with a few from neighbouring states, who have left their homes due to factors including lack of parental care, neglect, and other social challenges.

During the police visit, representatives of Street Aid Nigeria, a non-governmental organisation working with vulnerable children, were present. The NGO confirmed ongoing efforts to sensitise and reunite the children with their families, and 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. The command commended members of the public for their vigilance, which prompted the timely verification. It stressed that public cooperation remains vital to effective policing and urged residents to continue reporting suspicious activities and security concerns through appropriate channels. The command further confirmed that no security threat was identified. It said it would 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.

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