Police Officer Opens Fire in Calabar’s Watt Market, Multiple Casualties Reported

Tragedy Strikes as Police Inspector Shoots at Marketers in Cross River

A yet-to-be-identified police inspector reportedly opened fire at the bustling Watt Market in Calabar, Cross River State, on Sunday, leaving multiple casualties. The tragic incident, which sent shockwaves across the city, has sparked outrage and calls for accountability.

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Eyewitness Reports and Viral Video

According to reports, the police officer stepped out of a nearby police station with his gun cocked and began shooting indiscriminately at traders and passersby. Witnesses described the horrifying scene as people ran for safety while gunshots rang out in the crowded marketplace.

A video of the incident, uploaded by an 𝕏 account, Official Calabar Gist, captured the grim aftermath, showing at least one lifeless body on the ground. The account claimed that several marketers were killed, while many others sustained injuries.

The admin of the account posted:
“S@D‼️ Happened in Calabar this Sunday morning, an inspector of police ran m@d, opened fire openly, k!ll$ marketers and some !njured.”

The post quickly gained traction on social media, with many users expressing anger and demanding justice.

Police Confirm Incident, Officer in Detention

Reacting to the viral video, the Cross River State Police Command confirmed the incident through its 𝕏 handle. However, the command provided limited details, stating that the officer responsible had been arrested and placed in detention.

“The matter has been handled this morning, and the inspector is in detention. A press release will be issued shortly,” the police command stated.

Notably, the police did not disclose the officer’s name, the exact number of casualties, or possible motives behind the shooting. The lack of official details has fueled speculation and increased public demand for transparency.

Calls for Justice and Accountability

Following the tragic shooting, many Nigerians, including civil society organizations and human rights activists, have called for a thorough investigation and swift justice. The incident has reignited discussions about police misconduct, mental health issues among law enforcement officers, and the need for comprehensive police reforms.

Several advocacy groups have urged the authorities to ensure the victims and their families receive justice. Some have also called for the immediate prosecution of the officer if found guilty.

“This is unacceptable. The police must take full responsibility, conduct a transparent investigation, and ensure that justice is served,” said a spokesperson for a local human rights group.

Concerns Over Police Brutality and Public Safety

The Calabar shooting is the latest in a series of troubling incidents involving Nigerian police officers, raising concerns about the conduct and training of law enforcement personnel. Many Nigerians have expressed fears over their safety, particularly in interactions with security agents.

Reports of police brutality, accidental discharges, and excessive use of force have been recurring issues in the country. Advocacy groups have repeatedly called for police reforms to address these concerns, emphasizing the need for improved mental health assessments for officers.

In light of the recent tragedy, security analysts have suggested that the police review their internal disciplinary processes and strengthen psychological evaluations before deploying officers to high-pressure environments.

Awaiting Further Updates

As the public awaits the official statement from the Cross River State Police Command, there is mounting pressure for the authorities to provide full details, including the number of victims and the circumstances leading to the officer’s actions.

Many believe that this case will serve as a test of the Nigerian police’s commitment to accountability and justice. The incident has also intensified conversations about law enforcement reforms and the urgent need to restore public trust in the police force.

For now, the families of those affected by the shooting mourn their losses, while the city of Calabar grapples with the shocking event that has left an indelible mark on its residents.