Police dismiss threat alert, identify ‘mystery group’ as street children in Cross River

The Cross River State Police Command has dismissed social media reports that claimed an unidentified group was camping along Mary Slessor Avenue in Calabar, stating that those spotted were mostly street children and vulnerable youths.

In a statement released on Friday, the command’s Public Relations Officer, ASP Eitokpah Akata, explained that a patrol team was immediately deployed to the area opposite the Calabar Zoo after the reports began circulating.

According to the police, findings from the investigation revealed that the individuals in question were not any form of unidentified or suspicious group. Instead, they were predominantly street children and vulnerable youths, most of whom are indigenes of Cross River State, with a few from neighbouring states. The police noted that these children had left their homes due to factors such as 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. They confirmed ongoing efforts to sensitise the children and reunite them with their families.

Further inquiries established that the children are known to humanitarian organisations and concerned individuals who regularly provide them with food, clothing, and other forms of support.

The police command appreciated the vigilance of concerned citizens whose observations prompted the timely verification. It emphasised that public cooperation remains vital to effective policing and urged residents to continue reporting suspicious activities through appropriate channels.

While no security threat was identified, the police said they would continue to monitor the area and collaborate with relevant stakeholders, humanitarian organisations, and state government agencies to ensure public safety and support efforts aimed at addressing the welfare needs of the affected children.

The command reaffirmed its commitment to the protection of lives and property and to fostering a safe, secure, and inclusive environment for all residents of Cross River State.